YOUNG Africans SC (Yanga) are set to take on Coastal Union FC in an NBC Premier League clash today, with the eagerly awaited away game scheduled to kick off at 4:15 p.m. local time at Sheikh Amri Abeid Stadium in Arusha.

Due to ongoing renovations at their regular venue, CCM Mkwakwani Stadium in Tanga, Coastal Union will temporarily host their home matches in Arusha.

This will mark the first encounter between the two clubs in six months, with Young Africans narrowly defeating Coastal Union 1-0 in their last season league match. 

Coastal Union enter today’s game on the back of a morale-boosting 2-0 victory over Dodoma Jiji FC on October 18.

Young Africans come into the fixture in superb form, having won 12 consecutive matches, including victories over domestic rivals Simba SC and Azam FC, as well as Ethiopia’s CBE Bank. 

The team has demonstrated exceptional defensive resilience, with ten consecutive clean sheets, extending their unbeaten streak to an impressive 20 matches. This performance highlights a well-coordinated squad that excels both offensively and defensively.

Ahead of the match, Young Africans’ head coach Miguel Gamondi (pictured) expressed his enthusiasm about returning to Arusha while acknowledging the challenges posed by their demanding schedule.

“I am very happy to be in Arusha again,” Gamondi said. “We have a challenging schedule, but we’ve managed to arrange it so we can get some time to rest. Though it’s not ideal for preparation, we’re here to adapt and fight through it.”

Gamondi emphasized Young Africans’ squad depth and tactical versatility, which has been crucial for their success. 

“Yanga have a wealth of talent, allowing me to use different systems without impacting individual performance. I prioritize finding ways to utilize space effectively over sticking to rigid formations,” he explained. “My communication with all players remains strong, even though not everyone gets playing time.”

Meanwhile, Coastal Union have seen recent changes in its coaching staff. Just three days ago, the club appointed Juma Mwambusi as head coach. 

Mwambusi, who previously served as an assistant at Young Africans under Dutch coach Hans van Pluijm, signed a one-year contract, bringing extensive experience to Coastal Union. He takes over from David Ouma, who was dismissed in August after a run of poor results.

Currently, Coastal Union sit in 10th place with eight points from eight matches (two wins, two draws, and four losses). 

Mwambusi’s debut game against Young Africans will be a critical test, as Coastal Union look to make a statement under his new leadership.

“This match presents an opportunity for us to test our readiness against a strong opponent,” a Coastal Union official commented. “We have full confidence in Coach Mwambusi and believe he will steer the team toward success.”

In the standings, Young Africans currently hold the second position in the Premier League with a perfect record of 18 points from six matches. Following this encounter, Young Africans will face a demanding lineup, including Singida Black Stars, Azam FC, and the newly-promoted Tabora United. 

Coastal Union also have a challenging road ahead, with matches against Kagera Sugar, Singida Black Stars, and Ken Gold.

Today’s clash in Arusha promises an intense battle, as Coastal Union aim to disrupt Young Africans’ winning streak, while the Jangwani Street-based side seeks to continue their dominant form. 

Fans can expect a fierce contest as both teams fight for crucial points in the league.