Africa-Press – Tanzania. DEFENDING champions Young Africans return to domestic duty tonight when they face First league side Cosmopolitan FC in the Round of 64 of the CRDB Federation Cup at Kinondoni Municipal Council (KMC) Complex. Kick-off is set for 7:00pm.
For Yanga, tonight’s fixture marks a fresh chapter following their recent exit from the CAF Champions League.
The Jangwani giants finished third in Group B with eight points, narrowly missing out on a quarterfinal spot behind Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly SC (10 points) and Morocco’s AS FAR (nine points).
Having fallen short on the continental stage, Yanga will now shift their full focus to defending the CRDB Federation Cup crown, a trophy they have made their own in recent years.
Last season, Yanga lifted the title after a commanding 2-0 victory over Singida Black Stars in the final played at New Amaan Complex.
Yanga have recently won the title consecutively, having won it in 2022 and 2023 when it was known as the Azam Federation Cup, and again in 2024 and 2025 under its current CRDB sponsorship.
Standing in their way tonight is a historic Cosmopolitan side competing in the First League.
One of Tanzania’s oldest clubs, Cosmopolitan holds a special place in the country’s football heritage, after becoming the first Tanzanian team to represent the nation in international competition after winning the league title in 1967.
While Yanga enter as overwhelming favourites, cup competitions are known for surprises. Cosmopolitan will be eager to script a memorable upset, but the reigning champions are determined to begin their title defence in emphatic fashion.
On the other encounters, JKT Tanzania will lock horns against Pan African at Major General Isamuhyo Stadium at 4:00pm.
