Yanga target Muungano Cup semifinal slot against Zimamoto
Young Africans (Yanga) players train at Gombani Stadium ahead of today’s Muungano Cup match against Zimamoto FC. PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- The second semifinal match is scheduled to kick off at 7:15pm, with both teams targeting victory to book a place in the final of the tournament.
Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s football heavyweights, Young Africans (Yanga), will today take on Zimamoto FC in the Muungano Cup (Union Cup) at the Gombani Stadium in Pemba.
The second semifinal match is scheduled to kick off at 7:15pm, with both teams targeting victory to book a place in the final of the tournament.
Yanga secured their spot in the semifinal after eliminating KVZ of Zanzibar with a 2-0 victory, thanks to goals scored by Stephane Aziz Ki and Dennis Nkane.
Jangwani Street side head coach Miloud Hamdi said his focus is on winning the match and qualifying for the finals. He predicted a tough battle against Zimamoto FC and called upon his players to show determination and focus throughout the game.
“We are going to play against a strong team, and we must remain focused from start to finish. Zimamoto are also aiming for victory, so we need to be at our best,” said Hamdi.
“It is going to be a tough match as both teams are targeting a positive result. We have prepared well, and my players know what Yanga fans and members expect from them.”
Zimamoto FC advanced to the semifinals after defeating Coastal Union in the opening match of the competition. Their head coach, Mohamed Ali, said his players are ready for the important encounter, highlighting its significance for their campaign.
Ali explained that a win or a draw would be enough for his team to qualify for the knockout stage and expressed confidence that his players would rise to the occasion.
“A victory or a draw will make my team qualify for the knockout stage. My players are aware of that and have promised to fight hard to achieve our target,” said Ali.
The stage is now set for an intense clash, with both sides eager to showcase their strength and secure a place in the final of the inaugural Muungano Cup. The winner of the tournament will take home Sh50 million, while the runner-up will be awarded Sh30 million. There will also be prize money for the tournament’s best player, top scorer, best young player, and best goalkeeper.
