Yanga, Simba on African mission
DAR ES SALAAM: DAR ES SALAAM football giants, Young Africans and Simba SC, have embarked on their continental quests as they prepare for crucial CAF Champions League preliminary round fixtures this week.
Both sides are aiming to make a strong statement in Africa’s most prestigious club competition, just days after clashing in a heated Kariakoo Derby that saw Yanga edge their rivals 1-0.
The Jangwani-based Yanga will kick off their campaign on tomorrow against Angola’s Wiliete Sport Clube, while Simba follow up a day later with a tough away fixture against Botswana’s Gaborone United at the Obed Itani Chilume Stadium, formerly known as the Francistown Sports Complex.
The Reds of Msimbazi wasted little time after their derby setback, flying out to Botswana with a full- strength squad as they aim to bounce back and prove their continental mettle.
Head Coach Fadlu Davids has assembled an experienced group, blending local stars with foreign signings who are eager to make their mark.
The travelling contingent features goalkeepers Moussa Camara, Yakoub Suleiman and Alexander Erasto.
The defensive line is led by stalwart Shomari Kapombe alongside Antony Mligo, Rushine De Reuck, Karabou Chamou, Wilson Nangu and Naby Camara.
In midfield, the reds boast depth and creativity with Yusuph Kagoma, Allasane Kante, Kibu Denis, Elie Mpanzu, Ladack Chasambi, Mzamiru Yassin, Neo Maema, Joshua Mutale, Jean Charles Ahoua and Daudi Semfuko.
The attack will rely heavily on the firepower of Steven Mukwala, Seleman Mwalimu and Jonathan Sowah, who are expected to shoulder the goal scoring responsibilities.
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For Yanga, confidence is sky-high after their narrow but vital derby win their sixth consecutive victory over Simba in all competitions.
The triumph not only strengthened their domestic dominance but also provided a psychological boost heading into the continental stage.
Head coach Romain Folz underlined the importance of carrying momentum into the CAF Champions League.
“The focus shifts now to Africa’s biggest competition. We want to start strong and give our supporters plenty to cheer about,” he said shortly before the squad’s departure.
Club captain Bakari Mwamnyeto echoed his coach’s sentiments, emphasising that victory over their fiercest rivals has injected belief within the dressing room.
“Winning the derby was important for us. It gives us confidence that we can compete and succeed at the continental level,” Mwamnyeto remarked.
Yanga’s squad, though yet to be officially listed in detail, is expected to feature the club’s seasoned campaigners and recent signings who have impressed in domestic action.
With Folz at the helm, the team is determined to replicate last season’s deep run in continental competition and push further in pursuit of glory.
Tanzania’s pride on continental stage
The back-to-back assignments mark another test of Tanzania’s growing influence in African club football.
Over the past decade, both Yanga and Simba have steadily established themselves as consistent participants in CAF competitions, raising the nation’s football profile and exciting fans across East Africa.
Supporters on both sides of the Kariakoo divide will be watching keenly, aware that continental success carries not only prestige but also financial rewards vital for sustaining their clubs’ ambitions.
As the countdown begins, Yanga and Simba find themselves united by a shared dream to lift Tanzania’s name higher on Africa’s football stage.
Whether in Angola or Botswana, both clubs know the stakes: Win, advance and keep the dream of continental glory alive.
