Yanga’s Head of Information and Communications, Ali Kamwe, says the club is placing strong emphasis on mental and tactical preparation ahead of their two-match tie against Madagascar’s CFFA in the CAF Champions League qualifying round, stressing that the defeat to Simba must not derail their continental campaign.
Yanga are scheduled to face CFFA on Saturday, October 17, before the return leg on Wednesday, October 21. Both matches are set to be played at Azam Complex in Chamazi, Dar es Salaam.
Speaking to journalists at the club’s headquarters in Jangwani, Kamwe said the team’s preparations require particular attention, especially psychologically, following their 2-1 defeat to Simba in the Kariakoo Derby.
He said the result should serve as a lesson for the squad rather than become an obstacle to their preparations for the upcoming continental challenge.
Kamwe noted that teams competing in African tournaments closely monitor their opponents’ results, players’ condition and any circumstances that could give them an opportunity to secure positive results.
“When you come from a derby defeat and then face an important CAF Champions League match, you need to be even more careful with your preparations, particularly psychologically,” Kamwe said.
He added that Yanga must not allow the setback against Simba to give CFFA an opportunity to exploit them when they are vulnerable. He urged the players to regain their focus and concentrate on the club’s objectives.
Kamwe also confirmed that both matches will be played in Tanzania under an arrangement agreed upon by the parties involved, despite the first match on October 17 being designated as CFFA’s home fixture in the schedule.
This means Yanga will play both legs at Azam Complex, giving them an opportunity to benefit from familiar surroundings. However, Kamwe stressed the importance of thorough preparation and warned against underestimating their opponents.
Meanwhile, Yanga’s management has urged supporters and club members to continue backing the team during this crucial period as the club focuses on securing results that will take them further in the continental competition.
