Yanga chase consistency as KMC battle to revive form

DAR ES SALAAM: YOUNG Africans will face Kinondoni Municipal Council FC in a Mainland Premier League fixture at the KMC Complex in Dar es Salaam today, with both teams seeking to improve their league fortunes.

Yanga, under their new Head Coach, Pedro Gonçalves, are aiming to secure maximum points to climb the table, while KMC are determined to recover from a difficult start to the season.

Yanga Assistant Coach Patrick Mabedi said that the players are adapting well with the new coach’s methods and the players are focused on turning their progress in training into results on the pitch.

“The team is developing well and adjusting to the new coach’s instructions. This match is vital for us as three points would strengthen our position in the league,” Mabedi said.

He admitted that finishing had been a concern in recent games but said efforts had been made to address it during training.

“We have struggled in the final third, but we have been working hard to improve that aspect,” he said. “The players are responding positively, showing good discipline and creativity. We’re confident the work we’ve done will be reflected in our performance.”

KMC Head Coach Márcio Máximo acknowledged the challenge of facing Yanga, but insisted that his side were prepared for the encounter.

“We know Young Africans have quality players and a strong squad, so we have prepared thoroughly. Although our start to the season hasn’t been ideal, this is an opportunity for us to show what we can do,” he said.

Máximo said KMC’s struggles were due to, largely inconsistency and players adapting to new tactical systems.

“It’s not that we lack quality,” he explained. “Some players are still adjusting to our tactical approach. We have created chances but have not been clinical enough and that has cost us points.”

KMC have won just one of their opening five league matches, losing four, while Yanga will be hoping for a positive result to maintain momentum under their new technical bench.