Africa-Press – Tanzania. THE national envoys Young Africans SC and Singida Black Stars begin their CAF interclub campaigns today as the group stages get underway across the continent.
Yanga will host Moroccan side AS FAR Rabat in their CAF Champions’ League Group B opener at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar, while Singida Black Stars face CR Belouizdad in their Confederation Cup Group C match at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Algiers, Algeria.
The New Amaan Complex is expected to be full as Yanga aim for a strong start. Head Coach Pedro Gonçalves expressed confidence that local support will lift his team in a tightly contested fixture.
“We expect backing from our supporters here, and that will give us extra strength in our match against AS FAR Rabat,” he said.
Gonçalves noted that the squad has depth but will miss key forward Clement Mzize, who recently got CAF Goal of the Year award and he believes will motivate a strong return once recovered.
He added that both teams play similar styles but insisted that Yanga are prepared to push for a positive result.Yanga defender, Dickson Job, echoed his coach, saying the players are in high spirits and eager to begin the group stage well.
Singida Black Stars face a tough challenge in Algeria against CR Belouizdad. Head Coach Miguel Gamondi acknowledged the strength of their opponents but said his players are ready.
“Facing CR Belouizdad will not be easy. They are one of the strongest teams here,” he said. “We will try to force them to play our way, maintaining tactical discipline throughout.”
Gamondi promised commitment from his players, saying: “The team will step onto the field determined to fight with heart. The big work has been done in training, and now the responsibility is on the players to deliver on the pitch.”
Ahead of the Yanga match, Police Force in Zanzibar assured fans of heightened security. Regional Police Commander, Richard Thadeo Mchomvu said measures are in place to guarantee safety before, during and after the game.
He added that hosting a major match in Zanzibar promotes the image of both Zanzibar and Tanzania internationally.
“We will ensure that citizens, club members, supporters and football lovers enjoy this match in peace and safety,” he said, noting that the Police Force will work with other agencies to maintain order throughout the event.
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