Yanga SC head coach Manqoba Mngqithi has revealed that he has not yet made a final decision on the starting lineup for the match against Geita Gold, citing the short preparation time and uncertainty over the condition of some players who picked up injuries in the previous game.
Mngqithi said, “At this stage, it is difficult to say what changes there will be in the team ahead of tomorrow’s match. We have not yet had a full training session and we do not know for certain the condition of the injured players and those who picked up minor knocks in the previous game. However, it is clear that there will be some changes.”
The coach also said he is not under pressure despite the intense competition in the league, explaining that he is currently in a position he has always wanted to be in. Mngqithi stressed the importance of taking each game as it comes, while acknowledging that Yanga are yet to face some of the league’s big teams.
“I am not under pressure. I am in the position I wanted to be in. We should enjoy the competition and see where the battle takes us. This is a highly competitive league and we have not yet played against some of the big teams, so we have to take it one game at a time,” Mngqithi said.
Mngqithi added that there are still many areas Yanga need to improve, but the biggest challenge is the lack of sufficient training time due to the demanding competition schedule. He believes the FIFA break could give the team an opportunity to make further improvements, including improving the fitness of some players.
Speaking about Yanga supporters, Mngqithi thanked them for continuing to stand by the team during their demanding schedule. He said their support has been important and urged them to maintain the culture of supporting the team in every match.
“We need them to come in large numbers tomorrow and give us strength as our 12th player, so that together we can make sure we get the victory,” Mngqithi said.
Yanga SC will take on Geita Gold tomorrow at 7:00 PM Tanzania time, with Mngqithi aiming for victory in front of the Wananchi and hoping to maintain the team’s positive momentum in the NBC Premier League.
