Yanga face crucial league test against Dodoma Jiji FC

SINGIDA: YOUNG Africans will today take on Dodoma Jiji FC in a crucial Mainland Premier League clash at Airtel Stadium in Singida, as both sides brace for a tough and fiercely contested encounter.

Kick-off is set for 4:15 pm, with league leaders Young Africans aiming to tighten their grip at the top of the table.

The Jangwani Street giants lead the standings with 54 points from 22 matches, while Dodoma Jiji are eighth with 29 points.

With only eight matches remaining in the Mainland Premier League title race, every point has become crucial for Young Africans as they seek to defend their crown.

Young Africans currently lead the standings with 54 points from 22 matches, but pressure continues to mount from closest challengers Simba with 49 and Azam FC with 43, who are both determined to close the gap at the summit.

Any slip-up by Young Africans in the remaining fixtures could reopen the title race, especially with Simba and Azam expected to capitalise on dropped points as the season enters its decisive stage.

Speaking ahead of the game, Young Africans’ interim coach Abdihamid Moalin said his side expects a stern test despite their strong historical record against the capital-based club.

“It will be a very competitive match against a good Dodoma Jiji side. Despite the tight schedule, we know the task ahead, and we have come here for three points,” said Moalin.

He added that the team had focused on recovery due to the short turnaround between fixtures, expressing confidence that his players are ready for the challenge.

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Moalin also revealed that most of the squad is fit, although defender Mohammed Hussein is still being assessed after returning to training from injury. Recent meetings between the two heavily favour Young Africans.

In their last three Mainland Premier League encounters, Young Africans have scored 12 goals and conceded just once, registering emphatic victories of 4-0 in December 2024, 5-0 in June 2025 and 3-1 in January 2026.

For Dodoma Jiji, coach Amani Josiah admitted facing Yanga is never easy, but he maintained his players are motivated and prepared to fight for maximum points.

Striker Waziri Junior urged supporters to fill the stadium and rally behind the hosts, while Yanga goalkeeper Hussein Masalanga stressed the importance of consistency in the title race.

“Our goal now is to win every game until the end of the season,” said Masalanga.