CAFCL: Pedro Goncalves outlines Yanga’s vision

Young Africans Sports Club (Yanga SC) coach Pedro Goncalves has outlined his playing philosophy and the ultimate dream of the Tanzania Mainland Premier League side.

The Portuguese mentor replaced Romain Folz recently as management of the Dar es Salaam-based team sought to intervene and rescue the CAF Champions League campaign they felt was veering off track.

Under the brief and uninspiring reign of the Frenchman, Yanga struggled and even lost 1-0 to Malawi champions Silver Strikers; a result that proved to be the last straw for the ex-AmaZulu FC manager.

After installing Malawian Patrick Mabedi as the caretaker coach to preside over two games, the Tanzanian giants finally unveiled Goncalves as the new man in charge of the ship.

Why Yanga coach faces big test

Perhaps, the former Angola coach faces the biggest test of his Yanga tenure when they host AS FAR of Morocco in the Champions’ League group stage match on Friday.

Speaking ahead of the match, Goncalves sought to unveil his football blueprint and what Yanga want to achieve in the long run.

“My philosophy: dominate the game, no excuses. Results come from focus, calmness, and unity. Yanga’s dream is Africa’s crown and we’re building step by step to get there,” Goncalves told a post-match press conference on Friday.

“The ambition of Yanga fans is to one day win the African title. We are still in the best process of reaching where we need to be. It doesn’t matter when we will get that trophy, but ambition is what matters. If we continue with this project, then we will achieve our goals. If we want to move forward, we must assess how we take steps in the game.”

The 2025 COSAFA Cup-winning coach then analysed AS FAR, describing them as experienced opponents who deserve respect.

“FAR Rabat has a strong team with top players. We have a very good team that also has good chemistry. If we get enough support from the fans, then we will have a great match,” he said.

Goncalves lost his job with Angola after failing to take them past the group stage of the African Nations Championship which Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania co-hosted.