YOUNG Africans (Yanga) are ready to host Algeria’s MC Alger in a crucial Group A encounter of the CAF Champions League tomorrow at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

The Jangwani Street-based side need nothing less than a victory to secure a spot in the tournament’s quarter-finals.

Young Africans head into this decisive clash with the majority of their squad fit and ready, except for two players. 

Ivorian defender Yao Kouassi is sidelined with an injury that will keep him out for at least four weeks and up to six weeks. Midfielder Maxi Nzengeli, who has been recovering from an injury, is making progress but is unlikely to feature in this game.

“Our player Yao will be out for a period of no less than four weeks and no more than six weeks. Maxi is progressing well with training. If the coach deems him physically fit, he could be considered for the next game. But as of now, he is fine and continuing with his recovery,” said Ali Kamwe (pictured), the club’s Information and Communication Officer.

This positive update on the team’s readiness is a major boost for Young Africans as they prepare for what is arguably their most significant match of the season. The rest of the squad is in excellent condition and ready to give their all in the must-win encounter.

The excitement among Young Africans’ fans and members has been palpable, with ticket sales for the match soaring. The club has expressed its gratitude for the overwhelming support, with officials predicting a near-capacity crowd of 50,000 to 60,000 fans at the stadium.

“I would like to congratulate the fans and members. Many tickets have already been purchased even before the official motivational meeting or announcement of sales. 

“The level of awareness and enthusiasm has been incredible. The fans have shown through their actions just how much this match means to them,” said Kamwe.

The club believes that the electric atmosphere created by the supporters will provide the much-needed motivation for the players to deliver on the pitch.

Group A is still up for grabs, with Al Hilal having already secured a spot in the quarter-finals with 10 points. However, the Sudanese giants are yet to confirm their position as group leaders. 

Young Africans currently sit in third place with seven points, trailing MC Alger, who are second with eight points. A win for Young Africans would take them to 10 points, securing a quarter-final berth and leapfrogging MC Alger. 

The Algerian side, on the other hand, need only a draw to advance.

Young Africans head coach Sead Ramovic is expected to employ an aggressive strategy, focusing on exploiting MC Alger’s defensive weaknesses while ensuring their backline remains solid against the visitors’ counter-attacks.

This match is a pivotal moment for Young Africans, as advancing to the quarter-finals would mark a significant milestone in their CAF Champions League campaign. 

The team has shown resilience throughout the group stage, and tomorrow’s match presents an opportunity to solidify their status as one of Africa’s footballing powerhouses.

With a nearly full-strength squad, fervent support from their fans, and the stakes at an all-time high, Young Africans are determined to seize the moment and make history. 

The stage is set for a thrilling encounter at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, where the destiny of Group A’s final quarter-finalists will be decided.