Africa-Press – Tanzania. YOUNG Africans will face a test when they take on Mbeya City in a Mainland Premier League clash at the KMC Complex today.
Both teams are preparing for a fiercely contested encounter.
Yanga will be boosted by the return of striker Prince Dube, who has recovered from injury.
His comeback is expected to boost the defending champions’ attack, particularly after their previous meeting with Mbeya City ended in a goalless draw last September.
Young Africans Head Coach Pedro Goncalves confirmed news about Dube, with high hopes, that his side will take advantage of the home fixture.
“Prince Dube played 14 minutes in the last match after his injury, and he will feature against Mbeya City, adding strength and efficiency in attack,” Goncalves said.
Goncalves underscored that Laurindo Aurélio “Depu” and Emmanuel Mwanengo are still unavailable.
He stressed that despite having a list of injured players, especially in the attacking line, they are sure they have a better plan to earn maximum points. The Young Africans coach warned that their opponents will not be easy to beat.
While his team will need goals to secure maximum points, they must also be careful not to concede and will approach Mbeya City with caution.
“We want all three points, but we must be careful. We have to respect our opponents. Mbeya City has a strong and experienced squad. Concentration will be key because football is a game of mistakes; one error can cost you the entire match,” he added.
Young Africans currently lead the table with 44 points from 18 games.
They hold a five-point lead over second-placed Simba. As for Mbeya City, they sit in 12th position with 17 points from 18 match.
Mbeya City Head Coach Mecky Maxime shared similar sentiments, stressing preparation and respect for the league leaders.
“We know we are facing league leaders Yanga after playing three tough matches against KMC, Azam and Singida,” Maxime said.
“Big matches are decided by planning and intelligence. We respect our opponents because it will be a difficult game, but we are well prepared and expect a good contest.”
With no suspensions and Dube back, Yanga boast a full attacking lineup, while their defence remains solid.
Discipline could prove decisive, however, as both teams have a history of accumulating cards in high-pressure fixtures.
