Gonçalves proud of Yanga response despite missed chance for derby win

Young Africans SC (Yanga) head coach Pedro Gonçalves has praised his team’s character after they fought back from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw against Simba SC in a dramatic NBC Premier League Kariakoo Derby.

Speaking after the match, the Yanga tactician admitted his side endured a difficult start but commended the players for their resilience and overall performance across the majority of the game.

“The performance for around 75 to 80 minutes was very good,” Gonçalves said. “But if we look at the first 15 minutes, it was a disaster. We started well, but then made a big mistake. At this level, we cannot afford that kind of loss of concentration.”

Yanga found themselves trailing 2-0 early in the match after defensive lapses allowed Simba to capitalize. The coach revealed that his side had prepared extensively for the game plan, particularly around pressing, but early errors handed the initiative to their rivals.

“We spoke a lot about how to press and what we should do, but one mistake like that gives confidence to the opponent. That early setback affected our confidence,” he explained.

Despite the poor start, Gonçalves was pleased with how his players regrouped and executed their strategy for the remainder of the match.

“What I am very proud of is how the team stayed together compact, focused, and committed to the performance. We showed strong character and discipline after going behind,” he added.

Yanga gradually grew into the game, pulling one goal back before halftime and eventually finding the equalizer in the second half. According to Gonçalves, his side not only recovered well but also dominated large spells of the encounter.

“In my opinion, we were overall much better than Simba. The truth is, I believe we deserved to win the match, but this is football it is what it is,” he said.

The coach also highlighted the impact of his tactical substitutions, particularly the introduction of Kouassi Yao and Depu Laurindo, which helped change the dynamic of the game in Yanga’s favor.

“We have to manage our players carefully and use them strategically. Even in the previous match, we rested some players to avoid pushing them to the limit. Sometimes people don’t understand these decisions, but they are important,” he noted.

Gonçalves further pointed out that external factors, including the playing surface, may have influenced his team’s ability to fully execute their attacking game.

“Perhaps on a better pitch, we could have created more chances and gotten more from the match. But in the end, we accept the result,” he said.

 

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The draw keeps Yanga at the top of the NBC Premier League standings, maintaining a five point lead over Simba with 10 matches remaining. Gonçalves emphasized the importance of staying focused as the title race enters its decisive phase.

“We remain strong, we stay focused, and now our attention turns to the next match. It will be another tough game,” he said, referring to their upcoming fixture against KMC.

With momentum still on their side, Yanga will look to build on their fighting spirit as they continue their push for the league title.

Simba 2-2 Yanga Highlights