AL Hilal head coach Florent Ibenge lauded his team's tactical discipline and clinical execution in their 2-0 victory over Young Africans during the CAF Champions League Group A clash at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on Tuesday.

Second-half goals from Adama Coulibaly (63rd minute) and Yassir Mozamir (90th minute) secured a significant win for the Sudanese giants, marking their first-ever victory at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium against Tanzanian opposition.

Young Africans controlled much of the possession but failed to convert key chances. Their lack of pace and creativity in breaking down Al Hilal's organized defense proved costly. 

The absence of midfield maestro Khalid Aucho further weakened their ability to dictate the game and penetrate the opponent's lines.

Ibenge’s renowned defensive tactics played a pivotal role in the outcome. The Omdurman-based side adopted a deep defensive setup with eight players, while their two wingers were tasked with spearheading counterattacks. 

This strategy allowed Al Hilal to absorb Young Africans' pressure in the first half before exploiting gaps in the second half with physicality and pace.

“We are very happy to collect maximum points away from home,” said Ibenge (pictured). “We need to remain focused on the tactics we’ve worked so hard to refine, especially against an opponent with a new coach whose style we were unfamiliar with.”

He further explained the tactical approach: “In the first half, we allowed Yanga to play their game while we stuck to ours. It was part of our strategy. 

“In the second half, knowing Yanga would continue to press, we capitalized on counterattacks, which earned us two goals. In matches like this, it’s not about dominating possession but converting chances and securing all three points.”

Young Africans struggled defensively, particularly against Al Hilal’s dynamic counterattacks and physical superiority. 

The first goal came from a swift move on the right flank, with Coulibaly outpacing Ibrahim Bacca to finish through goalkeeper Djigui Diarra’s legs. 

Mozamir added the second with a solo run and clinical finish, sealing the victory in the dying moments.

The result lifts Al Hilal to the top of Group A after TP Mazembe and MC Alger played to a goalless draw.

Ibenge expressed optimism about his team’s prospects of advancing to the quarterfinals, a feat that has eluded the Sudanese side for the past six seasons. 

“This is a promising start, but we must stay focused. Each match is a step closer to breaking our group-stage curse,” he said.

With Al Hilal starting strongly and Group A shaping up to be competitive, the Sudanese side’s disciplined display sends a clear message to their continental rivals: they are ready to challenge for a place in the knockout stages.