Simba, Yanga gear for crucial CAF encounters in Algeria
DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA’S football powerhouses, Simba and Young Africans are set for crucial CAF Confederation Cup and CAF Champions League encounters this weekend as both teams travel to Algeria to face their respective opponents.
Yanga, representing Tanzania in the CAF Champions League, departed from Dar es Salaam early on Tuesday and is expected to have already arrived in Algeria ahead of their Group A clash against MC Alger.
The highly anticipated group A match is scheduled for December 7 at the Ali La Pointe Stadium in Douera, Algeria, with kick-off set for 10:00 PM East Africa Time.
After a disappointing start to their group-stage campaign, where they suffered a 2-0 defeat to Sudanese side Al Hilal, Yanga are determined to bounce back. The return of key players, including striker Clement Mzize and Ugandan midfielder Khalid Aucho, is a major boost for the team.
With their backs against the wall, Yanga aim to secure all three points to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive.
The travelling squad include goalkeepers Djigui Diarra, Khomeiny and Abutwalib Mshery, defenders Bakari Mwamnyeto, Dickson Job, Ibrahim Bacca, Nickson Kibabage, Kibwana Shomary, Shadrack Boka and Kouassi Attohoula Yao. Midfielders are Khalid Aucho, Duke Abuya, Mudathir Yahya, Jonas Mkude, Denis Nkane, Maxi Nzengeli, Farid Mussa, Sheikhan Khamis, Pacome Zouzoua, Clatous Chama and Aziz Ki, while the forward line will be led by Prince Dube, Clement Mzize, Kenedy Musonda and Jean Baleke.
ALSO READ: Yanga, Simba group opener performance breakdown
Simba, Tanzania’s other football giants, are also gearing up for a tough clash in the CAF Confederation Cup, facing CS Constantine in Algeria. The team departed today, travelling via Turkey to Algiers for their second group-stage match.
Simba’s Communication Manager, Ahmed Ally, confirmed that the advance team has already arrived in Algeria to finalise preparations and other logistics.
Simba’s goal for the match is clear positive result, however, Ally acknowledged that a draw would also be a positive result.
“Our objective is to win, but if that’s not possible, we aim for a draw. We want to achieve a result that keeps our fans motivated,” he said.
The match will take place at the Stade Mohamed-Hamlaoui in Algiers on Sunday. Both Simba and CS Constantine are tied with three points each in Group A, having each won their opening match. Simba triumphed 1-0 over Bravos do Maquis, while CS Constantine secured a 1-0 victory over CS Sfaxien.
Simba, known for their recent progress in both domestic and international competitions, will look to build on their success in the Confederation Cup. Both teams have been training intensely, focusing on coordination, resilience and tactical discipline.
With both clubs determined to advance in Africa’s top club competitions, Yanga and Simba are poised to make their mark, hoping to secure vital points and continue flying the flag for Tanzania in continental football.
