YOUNG Africans Sports Club, Tanzania’s representatives in the CAF Champions League, arrived safely in Addis Ababa on Thursday ahead of the first leg of their second-round preliminary clash against Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE).

The Jangwani Street giants aim to reach the group stage for the second consecutive year.

The first leg takes place today at the historic Abebe Bikila Stadium in Addis Ababa, with kick-off scheduled for 3:00 pm East African Time (EAT). 

Young Africans will look to secure a crucial away victory before hosting the return leg in Dar es Salaam next week. The aggregate winner of the two-legged tie will advance to the group stages of Africa’s premier club competition.

After a historic run last season, which saw them reach the CAF Champions League quarter-finals for the first time in 25 years, the Mainland Premier League champions are determined to make a deeper impact in the competition this year. Their previous campaign ended at the hands of South African heavyweights Mamelodi Sundowns.

Head coach Miguel Gamondi expressed confidence ahead of the tie, emphasizing the need for a positive result in the away leg. 

"We have prepared well, and I want the players to make good use of every opportunity so that we can finish the job in Addis. However, I am aware that it will be a tough game, and we must be fully concentrated," Gamondi said.

Despite a smooth journey to Addis Ababa, Young Africans have faced challenges in their preparations, as many of their players were on international duty. 

Of the 27 players registered for the CAF Champions League, only 11 were available for final training sessions. Nevertheless, the club reassured fans that they are fully prepared.

In addition to squad limitations, injuries have plagued the team. Ivorian forward Yao Kouassi and Tanzanian winger Farid Mussa are both nursing injuries. However, Gamondi remains optimistic and confident in the squad at his disposal.

Young Africans come into this match with momentum, having dominated Burundi’s Vital’O FC with a 10-0 aggregate score in the first round. 

The team’s impressive performance has bolstered their confidence as they now face Ethiopian side CBE, known for their resilience at home.

Fans are excited for the team’s quest to reach the CAF Champions League group stages for the second consecutive season.

Last year’s quarter-final run ignited widespread support, and Young Africans are determined to deliver another successful campaign for their supporters.