YOUNG Africans are determined to make a bold statement in the CAF Champions League as they prepare for their second-leg match against Vital'O at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on Saturday.

With ambitions to qualify for the next stage, the team is focused on improving their performance and creating an intimidating atmosphere for their opponents with a packed stadium.

The club is working closely with branch leaders to mobilize fans and fill the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium for this crucial preliminary stage match, making history with their support.

In the first leg at the Azam Complex last week, Young Africans secured an impressive 4-0 victory, with new signings Prince Dube and Clatous Chama making an immediate impact. They both found the back of the net, along with goals from Clement Mzize and Stephane Aziz Ki.

Following this dominant performance, Young Africans received a Tsh 20 million boost from the presidential motivation package. President Samia Suluhu Hassan had pledged to award Tsh 5 million for each goal scored by Tanzanian teams on the continental stage.

Young Africans' information and communication manager, Ali Kamwe (pictured), emphasized the club's focus on sending a strong message to title contenders in the CAF interclub competitions. 

"We've secured a victory in the first leg, but we anticipate that Vital'O will analyze their performance and look to improve their chances. Similarly, we will identify areas where we can grow to ensure our progression to the next round," Kamwe stated.

"Our goal for the second leg is to make a powerful statement in the CAF Champions League, aiming to compete with established powerhouses like Esperance de Tunis, TP Mazembe, Al Ahly, and Mamelodi Sundowns. 

“We want to showcase our team's quality on the pitch and create a formidable atmosphere with our fans. Last season, we successfully filled an away stadium in Kigali, and now we aspire to pack the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium for these critical preliminary matches."

Kamwe added that the team, under the leadership of head coach Miguel Gamondi, believes they have the potential to challenge for top honors in the CAF Champions League. Gamondi consistently emphasizes their desire to be among the top five clubs in Africa.

As Young Africans look ahead to the next phase of the competition, their commanding performance against Vital'O highlights their potential to make a deep run in the CAF Champions League this season.

The aggregate winner between Young Africans and Vital'O FC will face either SC Villa of Uganda or Ethiopia’s Commercial Bank in the next round. The victor of the second preliminary round will advance to the lucrative group stages of Africa’s premier club competition, scheduled to take place between October and December 2024.