DESPITE being heavy favourites, Young Africans have vowed not to underestimate Vital'O FC in their CAF Champions League preliminary round matchup.

The Jangwani Street giants are emphasizing tactical discipline and professionalism for both legs of the tie as they aim to secure a second consecutive qualification to the CAF Champions League group stage - a historic milestone for the club.

With both legs of the tie scheduled in Dar es Salaam, Young Africans hold a slight advantage. The first leg will be hosted at Azam Complex on August 17, with Vital'O acting as the home team, followed by the return leg at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on August 24.

Burundi's football giants, Vital'O, are back on the big stage after winning their 21st league title. They topped the Burundi Primus Premier League this season with 72 points from 30 matches, making them formidable opponents.

Young Africans resumed training after their impressive 4-1 victory over Azam FC in the Community Shield final. Coach Miguel Gamondi, benefiting from a healthy squad, is strategizing to secure a commanding lead in the first leg. 

New signings like Duke Abuya, Prince Dube, and Chadrack Boka have made significant impacts, while Clatous Chama and Jean Baleke provide depth from the bench.

Gamondi will look to capitalize on the team’s momentum and improved form for a dominant performance in the first leg.

Young Africans' information and communication officer, Ali Kamwe (pictured), has called on fans to support the team in large numbers, stressing the importance of a strong first-leg performance.

"I've always said that the CAF Champions League has no easy opponents. We’ll be fully prepared for Vital'O. Given it's a home-and-away tie, we’re fortunate that Vital'O opted to play both matches in Tanzania," Kamwe stated. 

"We urge our fans to come out in large numbers, create a memorable atmosphere, and send a strong message to Africa about our organization."

The winners of the Young Africans vs. Vital'O clash will face the victors of Commercial Bank of Ethiopia and Uganda's Sports Club Villa in the next round.

Following their impressive Community Shield victory, Young Africans are determined to dominate domestically this season. 

Kamwe declared the club's ambition to solidify their position as Tanzania’s football powerhouse by winning every available title.

"Our goal this season is to win every major trophy. Winning the Community Shield was the first step in our quest to capture the Premier League, Federation Cup, Muungano Cup, and Mapinduzi Cup. We’re determined to create history," Kamwe declared.