Yanga star Stephane Aziz Ki has left his teammates with the responsibility of getting the job done in the Kariakoo Derby against Simba after being confirmed as unavailable for the clash with their traditional rivals on October 10.
Aziz Ki will miss the derby after being shown a red card in the match against Geita Gold following an incident involving the team’s player, Datius Peter.
The red card resulted in a two-match suspension for the midfielder, with the first match coming against Simba, followed by the game against TRA United.
Yanga had earlier lodged a complaint with the Tanzania Premier League Board (TPLB), requesting that the card be overturned on the grounds that Aziz Ki did not intend to injure Datius Peter.
However, after the 72-Hour Committee issued its decision, nothing changed, and the player will now have to serve the suspension.
Despite missing a match that carries great significance for supporters on both sides, Aziz Ki said he has no doubts about Yanga’s squad, stressing that the team does not depend on one individual.
“I believe in our squad. Yanga have many good players and everyone has the ability to help the team. I will not be there, but I believe my teammates will do a good job,” said Aziz Ki.
The experienced Kariakoo Derby midfielder said he wishes he could be on the pitch to help the team, but because of his suspension, his role will be to support his teammates from the sidelines.
“I will be with them in spirit. I wish I could be on the pitch to help the team, but since I will not be there, I will support them and believe they will do well,” he said.
Aziz Ki has been one of Yanga’s key players in recent seasons, with his presence in matches against Simba leaving several memorable moments for Yanga supporters.
Now, with his absence from the October 10 derby, the responsibility of filling his void will fall to Yanga’s other players who are given the opportunity in what is expected to be a highly competitive encounter.
