Photo Credit - Young Africans (Yanga SC).
Young Africans (Yanga SC) will move seven points clear at the summit of the Mainland Premier League table if they secure a win against Pamba Jiji at CCM Kirumba Stadium on Friday.
The Timu ya Mwananchi are currently topping the 16-team log with 55 points from 22 matches and a win in the away fixture, will stretch their lead to seven points ahead of rivals Simba SC, who can reduce the deficit when they return to action against Coastal Union on Saturday.
Ahead of the match. Yanga coach Miloud Hamdi has stressed the importance of getting another win in their quest to retain the crown. However, Hamdi, who joined Yanga from Singida Black Stars, has remained cautious insisting they will have to work hard for the win.
“We didn’t come here for vacation. We respect Pamba Jiji but we are here to win the game,” Hamdi told Pan-Africa Football. “Our main focus from the game is nothing than getting the maximum three points.
“We know the game will not be easy, but we are ready to fight. When teams play against us, they always give everything and we expect the same fighting spirit from Pamba Jiji. We are expecting a tough game, but we are Yanga, and we have to show that we are a big team.”
Hamdi, however, raised concerns that the game could be even more difficult for his side if Pamba resort to a defensive approach in their game plan. “I don't know if Pamba will play just in defense, or they will decide to park the bus, I can’t be sure about that because they also need three points.
“If I was their coach, I wouldn’t use that tactic because they need also points to stay in the league. This team recently got a draw against Singida Black Stars, which is not easy. They can attack and score, so we have a good strategy for them, but I can’t talk about that here because it’s the secret of our game.”
On the support from Yanga fans, Hamdi said: “I would like to say something about Yanga fans. I have a lot of experience in African football, I have worked with big clubs, but Yanga fans are one of a kind. I’m not afraid to say this because it’s the truth.
“They give me a great surprise and a great joy. When they come in numbers to support us, they give us the biggest motivation to fight, work hard in practice, and give everything on the field.”
So far this season, Yanga have won 18 matches, drawn one and suffered one defeat.
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