AFTER returning on the top of the Golden Boot race, Young Africans attacking midfielder Stephane Aziz Ki has downplayed the pressure of the scoring accolade of the NBC Premier League as he insists on team results.

AFTER returning on the top of the Golden Boot race, Young Africans attacking midfielder Stephane Aziz Ki has downplayed the pressure of the scoring accolade of the NBC Premier League as he insists on team results.

This comes after Yanga won 4-0 away against Dodoma Jiji at Jamhuri Stadium on Wednesday evening with Aziz Ki scoring a brace while the other two goals were scored by Clement Mzize and Maxi Nzengeli, who scored his 10th goal of the league this season.

In the Golden Boot race this season, Aziz Ki has 17 goals with eight assists followed by Azam’s Feisal Salum who has 16 goals and seven assists.

Yanga continue to lead the league standings with 74 points, the same tally they acquired last year to become champions for the second time in a row.

The 2023/2024 champions will receive their NBC Premier League trophy tomorrow when they play home against Tabora United at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

Speaking after the match against Dodoma Jiji, Aziz Ki said he is more focused on the team’s performance and results because it is important to maintain healthy competition in the race.

"For me, I have always said that what I want is a win for the team. If I get an opportunity to score, I will be happy to score, but when I don't score I will find ways to contribute to our team’s positive results.

"I don't approach games with a mindset that I have to score goals because that will distract the rhythm of the team and I won't be playing according to the team’s tactics and flow.

"I am aware that Feisal is also in the race. I wish him nothing but the best. He is my best friend and he deserves to perform at this level," said Aziz Ki.

The Burkinabe international has now reached last season’s Premier League top scorers - Fiston Mayele and Saido Ntibazonka - who scored 17 goals each.

Aziz Ki, who is approaching the end of his contract, is yet to sign an extended contract with the club, with various teams, including South African giants Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, said to be seeking his signature.

In his third season with the club, Aziz Ki has won three NBC Premier League titles, and last week he scored the winner in the extra time of the CRDB Bank Federation Cup semi-final match against Ihefu.

The Jangwani-based side won 1-0 in the match and will face Azam in the back-to-back Federation Cup final to be held on June 2 at New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar.