YOUNG Africans made a resounding statement in the CAF Champions League by defeating Ethiopia’s CBE SA 6-0 at the New Amaan Complex Stadium in Zanzibar. This impressive victory marked their entry into the group stage, showcasing their strength and determination to represent Tanzanian football on the continental stage.

The match saw Clatous Chama open the scoring in the 38th minute. Chama received a precise pass from Mudathir Yahya at the edge of the box, skill-fully maneuvering past the CBE SA goalkeeper to net the first goal. Young Africans continued to press, and their efforts paid off again in the second half when Clement Mzize found the back of the net just one minute after the break.

Substitute Stephane Aziz Ki emerged as the star of the match, scoring a hat-trick with goals in the 77th minute, and two additional strikes in stoppage time at 90+3 and 90+4 minutes. Mudathir capped off the scoring in the 90th minute, solidifying Young Africans dominance. 

With this emphatic win, Young Africans qualified for the group stage with an aggregate score of 7-0 against CBE SA, having previously secured a 1-0 victory in the first leg on September 14.

Following the match, head coach Miguel Gamondi expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance. 

“I am happy with how the team played,” he stated. “I love possession football, and we executed that for the entire 90 minutes. My players excelled in attack, especially in the second half.

"Our players performed exceptionally well today, especially in terms of creating scoring opportunities. We were able to capitalize on many of those chances, thanks to the players' determination and hunger. This positive performance has earned us a well-deserved spot in the CAF Champions League group stage.

"We have seen significant improvement in our finishing. I believe that our players are understanding the importance of converting chances into goals, we are confident that we will continue to make strides in this area and achieve our goals," he said.

Gamondi also emphasized the significance of Young Africans’ progress in the tournament. 

“It’s a proud moment for Tanzania to have one team in the group stage of the CAF Champions League; it’s not easy,” he remarked.

The Argentine tactician asserted his team’s readiness to face any opponents in the upcoming group stage. 

“As a big team, we cannot fear anyone, but we will respect our opponents. We will compete face-to-face. Young Africans deserve respect in African football,” he added.

This victory follows Young Africans’ earlier triumph over Vital’O of Burundi, where they recorded an astounding 10-0 aggregate victory, winning 4-0 in the first match and 6-0 in the second at Azam Complex Stadium. 

This consistent performance underscores Young Africans’ pursuit of continental glory as they aim for the prestigious CAF Champions League title.

However, the road ahead will not be without challenges. The group stage features several formidable teams, including reigning champions Al Ahly and Pyramids FC of Egypt, along with strong contenders such as CR Belouizdad and MC Alger from Algeria, AS Maniema Union and TP Mazembe from DR Congo, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns from South Africa, Raja Casablanca from Morocco, and Esperance from Tunisia.

Last season, Young Africans reached the quarter-finals but were eliminated by Mamelodi Sundowns in a tense penalty shootout. Sundowns, however, were later thwarted in their quest for the final by Esperance, who ultimately lost to Al Ahly.

As Yanga SC prepares for the group stage, the team remains focused and determined to advance further in the tournament. With a blend of skill, strategy, and resilience, they are set to make an impact on the African football scene, aiming not just to participate but to contend for the title. The anticipation builds as fans look forward to seeing how Yanga SC will navigate the challenges ahead and if they can achieve their dream of becoming champions in this prestigious competition.