Big Win for Manqoba’s Yanga! Young Africans Move Closer to CAF Champions League Group Stages

Young Africans SC have taken a massive step towards qualifying for the CAF Champions League group stages after delivering an emphatic 4-0 victory over Madagascar outfit CCFA in the first leg of their second preliminary-round encounter on Saturday afternoon.

The convincing result puts the Tanzanian giants in a commanding position ahead of the return fixture, with head coach Manqoba Mngqithi seeing his team produce an impressive performance as they continue their pursuit of continental success.

Young Africans, popularly known as Yanga, entered the encounter with expectations high among their supporters, and the team responded by securing a significant advantage in their bid to progress to the next round of Africa’s premier club competition.

The breakthrough came in the 39th minute when Cheikh Ibrahima Touré found the back of the net, giving Young Africans a deserved lead after sustained attacking pressure. The goal proved crucial, allowing Mngqithi’s men to head into the second half with greater confidence and momentum.

Young Africans wasted little time extending their advantage after the restart. Albert Kangwanda scored in the 47th minute to make it 2-0, putting the Tanzanian side firmly in control of proceedings.

The visitors continued to exploit weaknesses in the opposition defence, with Mudathir Yahya adding the third goal in the 54th minute. Maxi Nzengeli then completed the scoring in the 59th minute, capping an outstanding spell that saw Yanga score three times in the opening 14 minutes of the second half.

The performance was particularly encouraging for Mngqithi because four different players found the net. It highlighted the team's attacking depth and ability to receive contributions from several areas rather than depending on one individual to deliver the goals.

The clean sheet was equally important, ensuring that CCFA failed to find a response. The match was played at the Azam Complex in Chamazi, Dar es Salaam, following an arrangement between the clubs.

The result also offered Young Africans a timely response following their 2-1 defeat to bitter rivals Simba SC in the Kariakoo Derby the previous weekend. Saturday's commanding performance demonstrated the team's determination to put that setback behind them and refocus on their continental ambitions.

Young Africans will now turn their attention to the second leg, scheduled for Wednesday, 21 October 2026, at the Azam Complex. With a four-goal advantage already secured, the Tanzanian giants are in a strong position to complete the job and book their place in the CAF Champions League group stages.

However, Mngqithi will be aware that the tie is not officially over until the return fixture has been completed. His players must remain disciplined and avoid complacency as they look to secure qualification.

For Yanga supporters, the emphatic victory provides plenty of reasons for optimism. The club is now within touching distance of another appearance among Africa's elite, and the focus will be on finishing the job in the second leg.

Source https://x.com/Soccer_Laduma/status/2111460231104364823