YOUNG Africans are determined to turn their fortunes around in the CAF Champions League group stage following a string of disappointing results.

The team has suffered two consecutive 2-0 defeats, first at home against Al Hilal of Sudan and most recently away to MC Alger of Algeria. 

Despite these setbacks, the club remains optimistic about its chances to progress, with 12 points still up for grabs in their remaining four Group A matches.

Speaking after the latest loss at the July 5 Stadium in Algiers, Young Africans’ communication and information officer, Ali Kamwe, acknowledged the challenging circumstances the club is facing. 

He urged fans to remain calm and assured them that the team is working on a strategy to bounce back.

“It was a difficult result to accept, and it’s not the outcome we had prepared for. Our goal was to win, but football is unpredictable. There are highs and lows, and right now, we are in a tough period,” Kamwe said.

Drawing comparisons to other football giants, Kamwe highlighted that even successful clubs like Manchester City have endured challenging phases. 

“This is not unique to us. Even Manchester City has faced difficult times. What matters is how you respond. We need to come back stronger and ensure this situation doesn’t persist,” he added.

Despite the disheartening start to their group-stage campaign, Kamwe emphasized that Young Africans still have a fighting chance to advance to the quarter-finals. 

“We need to focus on the remaining 12 points. With determination and proper preparation, we believe we can achieve this goal,” he stated.

Kamwe also expressed the collective disappointment within the club, noting that the poor results have affected everyone, from the coaching staff to the players and fans. 

However, he urged unity and resilience, emphasizing the importance of regrouping and moving forward.

Young Africans’ back-to-back losses have placed them at the bottom of Group A. The team’s most recent defeat in Algeria saw Ayoub Abdellaoui and Sofiane Bayazid score for MC Alger, compounding Young Africans’ struggles. 

Earlier, the Tanzanian champions suffered another 2-0 loss to Al Hilal at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

The team has managed just one win in their last five matches across all competitions, a worrying statistic for a side with high ambitions. 

To keep their hopes alive, Young Africans must deliver strong performances in their upcoming fixtures.

Young Africans’ next group-stage match is a crucial away tie against DR Congo’s TP Mazembe on December 14, followed by the return leg in Dar es Salaam on January 3. 

They will then travel to face Sudanese giants Al Hilal on January 10 before concluding their group-stage campaign at home against MC Alger on January 17.

Kamwe reiterated the club’s commitment to learning from its mistakes and making necessary adjustments to improve performances. 

“These results are painful, but they are also a test of our resilience. We need to prepare for the next game and focus on getting back on track. The road ahead is tough, but we believe in the strength and determination of this club,” he said.

Acknowledging the vital role of supporters, Kamwe called on Young Africans members and fans to remain patient and supportive during this challenging period. 

“This is the time for unity. Let’s come together, support the team, and work towards achieving our goals. The journey is not over,” he concluded.