THE return of key players from injury has boosted the confidence of Young Africans SC’s head coach Miguel Gamondi, who believes his team can travel to South Africa and excel in the second leg of their CAF Champions League quarterfinal tie against Mamelodi Sundowns FC on Friday.

Despite missing key figures like Pacome Zouzoua, Khalid Aucho, and Kouassi Attohoula Yao, Young Africans SC- alias Yanga- displayed commendable spirit in the first leg, drawing 0-0 at home on Saturday. To advance to the semi-finals, they now require either a victory or a scoreless draw in the return fixture.

“I’m not suggesting my players were flawless,” acknowledged Gamondi. “We faced a formidable opponent with vast experience in this competition. But as a coach, it's gratifying to see my players execute our game plan. That’s the satisfaction I took away, even if we couldn’t secure the win.”

Gamondi continued: “We’re now hopeful that the injured players will be back for the away leg. The truth is, I truly aspire to lead this team to the CAF Champions League final this season.”

The first leg displayed Gamondi’s tactical adaptability, posing a significant challenge for his Mamelodi Sundowns counterpart, Rhulani Mokwena, who readily admitted this.

Gamondi opted for a three-man central defensive line featuring Bakari Mwamnyeto, Ibrahim Hamad ‘Bacca’, and Dickson Job, who filled the void at right-back created by injuries to Yao and Kibwana Shomary.

In central midfield, where Aucho usually operates, Jonas Mkude stepped in, while the attacking lineup featured a two-pronged attack.

Yanga displayed a well-organized defense and launched surprise attacks through various channels.

The creative passing of Stephane Aziz Ki and Mudathir Yahya could have translated into significant chances if Kennedy Musonda and Clement Mzize, tasked with exploiting the space behind the Sundowns defense, had utilized the service effectively. 

However, both attackers faltered in front of the highly-rated Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams (31), failing to convert promising opportunities.

Reflecting on the match, Mamelodi Sundowns' head coach Mokwena remarked: “It was a tough encounter. Yanga showcased their quality, but the advantage lies with us playing at home in the second leg. We’ll need to improve to execute our plan.”

Apart from Pacome, Aucho is a footballer who might be available for Yanga in the second leg.

While Aucho was reportedly eager to play in the first leg, Gamondi opted for a cautious approach, prioritizing his full recovery.

Yao’s availability remains uncertain, with a 50/50 chance of returning according to recent reports.

The stage is set for a compelling second leg as Yanga, buoyed by the potential return of injured players, aims to upset the odds and secure a historic semi-final berth in the CAF Champions League.