Community Shield: Young Africans ready for ‘big game’ against rivals Simba SC – Romain Folz

Tanzania Mainland Premier League champions Young Africans (Yanga SC) coach Romain Folz has discussed their readiness to take on rivals Simba SC in the season opener dubbed Community Shield at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on Tuesday.

Yanga, who clinched a domestic double last season – the Premier League and Federation Cup – will come up against Msimbazi Reds by virtue of the latter finishing second behind them in the league triumph.

“When it comes to the game when the season is starting, obviously we are excited about it, it is a big game to start off the season, and we are going to do our very best to keep the best performance possible, just like we do in every single occasion,” Folz told Pan-Africa Football.

“No matter the opponent, no matter the competition, we always try to give our best and this time is no difference, it’s going to be a big game with big crowd, we’re going to try to make our fans proud, and to bring back the trophy with us.”

Aucho good player, but will not be missed

Asked whether he was under pressure heading into the fixture, the French tactician said: “The pressure is always part of the game, the question is how you handle it, and how you approach it. For me, I think in any big match environment or in any big club environment, the pressure is always on.

“The context that you’re displaying now, of course puts us in a situation that we must perform but I’ll be very honest with you, saying that if the context was different, I would approach things the same way. I would be looking at the same outcome.”

On whether he will miss the services of Ugandan midfielder Khalid Aucho, who left to sign for Singida Black Stars, Folz explained: “Khalid [Aucho] was an important player of Yanga for many years, Now that he’s gone, someone else is going to take over and become an important player of the team.

“We have many players who can play in the position. I can guarantee you that whoever I choose or enter in the game tomorrow (Friday), will deliver.”

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