YOUNG Africans head coach Sead Ramovic hailed his team’s performance following their emphatic 4-0 victory over Tanzania Prisons in a Mainland Premier League match at the KMC Complex.

The win marked the defending champions’ second consecutive triumph at the venue, lifting them back to second place on the league table.

“What a performance today,” Ramovic (pictured) said after the match. “We came with the right mindset, knowing it would be a tough game and it was. But we were ready. From the first minute to the last, we controlled the game, stayed focused, and demonstrated our hunger for the three points. Our supporters witnessed a beautiful game.”

Young Africans dominated the encounter with a blend of attacking prowess and defensive discipline, securing their first clean sheet in several matches. Ramovic highlighted the significance of the defensive effort, which limited Tanzania Prisons to just one shot on target.

“Keeping a clean sheet makes the 4-0 win even sweeter,” he noted. “Our defensive structure was solid, and when we stay compact for 90 minutes, it’s a beautiful thing. Of course, there’s always room for improvement, but we’re on the right path,” he said.

The coach also reserved praise for goalkeeper Abutwalib Mshery, who stepped in for Abubakar Khomeiny. 

“He only had to make one save, and that speaks volumes about the team’s collective defending,” Ramovic added.

Ramovic made notable changes to the lineup, starting midfielders Khalid Aucho and Stephane Aziz Ki alongside striker Prince Dube. The backline featured entirely homegrown talent, with Kibwana Shomary, Nickson Kibabage, Ibrahim Bacca, and Dickson Job forming a formidable defensive unit.

The tactical adjustments paid off, as Young Africans delivered a clinical performance. Ibrahim Bacca stood out with two goals, including one controversial effort reminiscent of Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ goal in the 1986 World Cup. Replays suggested a handball, but the referee allowed the goal to stand.

Bacca’s first goal came in the 42nd minute, capitalizing on a well-taken free kick by Aziz Ki. He added his second in the 84th minute, heading in a corner from substitute Pacome Zouzoua.

The match also saw Clement Mzize and Prince Dube continuing their fine form. Mzize opened the scoring in the 13th minute, finishing off a precise pass from Dube. The Zimbabwean striker then netted Young Africans’ second goal just before halftime, taking his tally to five goals in three matches across all competitions.

Ramovic praised the attacking duo, emphasizing their growing chemistry and contribution to the team’s success. 

“Mzize and Dube are working incredibly well together,” he said. “Their understanding on the pitch is improving, and it’s showing in the goals they’re scoring.”

The second half saw several substitutions, with Pacome Zouzoua, Bakari Mwamnyeto, and Chadrack Boka entering the fray. Zouzoua, in particular, made an immediate impact, providing the assist for Bacca’s second goal.

Ramovic credited the squad’s depth and versatility for the team’s strong performance. “We have 22-23 fantastic players, and everyone is contributing. This depth allows us to maintain our intensity and adapt to different challenges,” he said.

The victory brought Young Africans level with archrivals Simba SC in terms of wins, with both teams securing 11 victories from 13 matches. Young Africans now sit in second place with 33 points, behind Simba’s 34. Both teams boast impressive goal tallies, with Simba leading with 29 goals scored and five conceded, while the Jangwani-based outfit has scored 23 and conceded six.

The result also saw Young Africans surpass Azam FC, who dropped to third place despite sharing the same points tally. Young Africans’ superior goal difference gives them the edge in the standings.

Closing his remarks, Ramovic expressed gratitude to the players, supporters, and the club’s management. 

“This team is amazing on and off the pitch. The players’ effort and commitment, the incredible supporters, and the support from the club’s leadership make it a joy to be part of Yanga. We’re proud of where we are and excited about what lies ahead.”