Yanga coach praises Aziz Ki, Chama performances
DAR ES SALAAM: YOUNG Africans SC Head Coach Miloud Hamdi has showered praise on his star midfielders, Stephane Aziz Ki and Clatous Chama, following their sparkling performances in an emphatic 8-1 thrashing of Stand United, a result that booked Yanga a spot in the CRDB Federation Cup semi-finals.
The reigning champions showcased their dominance with a commanding display that left fans in awe and reaffirmed their hunger for more silverware this season.
The victory sets up a tantalising semi-final showdown against JKT Tanzania, scheduled for May 16 at Mkwakwani Stadium in Tanga Region.
The two teams are no strangers, having clashed twice in the NBC Premier League this season.
Yanga claimed a 2-0 win in the first encounter, while the second ended in a tense goalless draw setting the stage for a thrilling Federation Cup decider.
In the post-match interview, Coach Hamdi was full of admiration for his team, particularly highlighting the brilliance of Aziz Ki and Chama.
“Aziz Ki is just coming back from injury, but his commitment in training has been exceptional and he silenced the critics today with a performance full of heart and class. The player is resilient, talented and always ready to rise to the occasion,” said Hamdi.
He also hailed Chama, who pulled the strings in midfield with poise and vision. “I’ve never doubted Chama’s quality.
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When he’s in this kind of form, he is almost untouchable. He dictates the tempo and gives us the creative edge we need,” Hamdi said.
The coach emphasised that the entire squad had been challenged to finish the season strongly and he was delighted with the impact of the substitutes who came off the bench.
“Everyone contributed. The energy, the focus, it was all there. This is how we want to finish our opponents United, sharp and hungry for trophies,” he said.
Meanwhile, in the second CRDB Federation Cup semifinal, Simba SC will go head-tohead with Singida Black Stars on May 18, 2025, at Tanzanite Kwaraa Stadium in Babati, a fixture that promises fireworks and fierce rivalry.
On the other side, Stand United Coach, Juma Masoud acknowledged the strength of the opponents while reflecting on his team’s early mistakes.
“Our plan to contain Yanga did not work. We conceded too early and from there, the game slipped away from us and our young players lacked the experience needed in such a big match, but we’ll learn and grow from this,” Masoud said.
As the CRDB Federation Cup approaches its climax, fans can expect more thrilling action, dramatic moments and football at its finest.
