Young Africans Reportedly Sack Manqoba Mngqithi as Steve Barker’s Simba SC Extend Their Lead

South African coach Manqoba Mngqithi has reportedly been dismissed by Tanzanian giants Young Africans SC following a disappointing run of results that has put the club’s league title ambitions under serious pressure.

According to reports, the decision comes after Yanga were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by TRA United on Saturday, October 24, 2026. The result leaves the defending champions five points behind their fierce rivals, Simba SC, who are coached by fellow South African tactician Steve Barker.

Mngqithi’s reported departure follows Yanga’s 2-1 defeat to Simba in the highly anticipated Kariakoo Derby earlier this month. The consecutive setbacks have proved costly, allowing Simba to establish a significant advantage in the Tanzanian league title race.

Yanga struggled to find a breakthrough against TRA United despite their efforts to secure maximum points. Their frustration was compounded when midfielder Mudathir Yahya received a red card late in the match, further highlighting a difficult afternoon for the defending champions.

Mngqithi joined Young Africans in July 2026 after leaving South African club Golden Arrows. His appointment was viewed as an important move by the Tanzanian giants, who hoped his experience and tactical knowledge would help maintain their domestic dominance and improve their prospects in continental competitions.

The experienced coach previously spent more than a decade at Mamelodi Sundowns, where he served in various coaching roles and contributed to the club’s domestic success, including its 2016 CAF Champions League triumph.

His reported exit now raises questions about Yanga’s immediate plans and who will take charge of the team as they attempt to recover lost ground.

Meanwhile, Barker’s Simba SC will be encouraged by their growing advantage over their biggest rivals. With the championship race intensifying, Yanga face mounting pressure to regain consistency and prevent Simba from extending their lead further.

However, Young Africans have yet to publicly confirm the reported dismissal, leaving uncertainty surrounding Mngqithi’s immediate future.

Source

https://x.com/i/status/2114069646567526584