YOUNG Africans SC (Yanga) will aim to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League when they host Singida Black Stars at KMC Complex this afternoon at 4 PM.

The defending champions currently sit two points ahead of second-placed Simba SC, though their rivals have a game in hand - setting up a thrilling title race that is expected to go down to the wire in May.

Young Africans have amassed 49 points from 19 matches, registering 16 wins, one draw, and two losses. Their impressive goal tally of 48 goals scored and only eight conceded highlights their attacking prowess and defensive solidity.

On the other hand, Singida Black Stars currently occupy fourth place in the league standings. After 19 matches, they have won 11, drawn four, and lost four. 

With aspirations of securing a top-four finish and earning a spot in next season’s CAF competitions, every point is crucial for the Singida-based side.

The Jangwani Street-based side, who have won the last three league titles in succession, head into this match on the back of a commanding 6-1 victory over KMC- their fourth win in their last five matches across all competitions.

Under Miloud Hamdi, Young Africans boast the most potent attack in the league, with key goal contributors including: Clement Mzize – 9 goals; Prince Dube – 8 goals; Pacome Zouzoua – 7 goals; and Stephane Aziz Ki – 5 goals.

Speaking ahead of the match, coach Miloud Hamdi (pictured) emphasized the need to stay focused and avoid complacency.

“We prepare for this game the same way we prepare for any other game. We change nothing. We must treat all games the same, take this game seriously, and prepare well because it will be another tough match,” said Hamdi.

“We must not be overconfident. We need to take this game seriously, just like we did against KMC. Every match is different, and we must respect our opponents while aiming for three points.”

Hamdi, who previously coached Singida Black Stars, downplayed the importance of past results, noting that football is unpredictable.

“I do not believe too much in past statistics. You can have a great game today and a poor one tomorrow. Our focus is on playing well and winning.”

He also reflected on his squad’s performance in their previous match:

“Sometimes, a player unexpectedly delivers an exceptional performance. At halftime against KMC, I spoke to the players, and their response was incredible. 

“The first 30 minutes of the second half, they played at an exceptionally high level. It was surprising and not surprising at the same time because I know what they are capable of.”

Singida Black Stars, under interim coach David Ouma, have struggled for consistency but remain well-positioned in the race for fourth place. 

They currently sit five points ahead of fifth-placed Tabora United and are pushing to secure a top-four finish.

In the first-round encounter, Young Africans secured a 1-0 victory over Singida Black Stars at the New Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar, with Ivorian midfielder Pacome Zouzoua scoring the decisive goal in the 67th minute.

With both teams eager for a positive result, fans can expect a thrilling contest as Young Africans look to tighten their grip on the title race while Singida Black Stars fight to stay in the top four.