Goncalves warns Young Africans against underrating TMA United

After ensuring they cemented their top spot in the Mainland Premier League, Young Africans will now shift focus to the CRDB Federation Cup when they entertain lower division side TMA United at KMC Complex Stadium on Saturday.

The Citizens remained eight points clear at the top of the league table following their 3-0 victory against Pamba Jiji. Young Africans will face TMA United in the knock out competition.

 

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Young Africans had eliminated Cosmopolitans to reach this stage. Ahead of the fixture, Young Africans coach Pedro Goncalves has urged his players to stay focused and play with cautious.

‘Yanga must not lose sight of our goals’

“We are heading to a competition of exceptional quality. Tomorrow (Saturday), we are not going to look for points but for victories,” Goncalves told Pan-Africa Football.

“Our opponents are well aware that football has its wonders. I remember our last game against Cosmopolitans was very difficult. What I discovered is that lower league teams play with the same discipline as those in the premier league. We must play with focus and caution.”

Goncalves added: “We must play hard and focused, regardless of whether we face Al Ahly or TMA. If we are not careful, we will find ourselves in a difficult situation because our opponents have nothing to lose.

“If we lose, we will have lost the championship. If we do everything right, we have a good chance of winning the championship again.”

Goncalves concluded: “I know many of the TMA players understand it will be an important platform to showcase their abilities. We must focus on that, but we must not lose sight of our goals.

“We know they have produced a premier league team, so it is not a team to be trifled with. I would like to ask our fans to come out in large numbers to give us encouragement.”

TMA United have nothing to lose

Allan Okello, who spoke on behalf of the players, said: “Our brothers have nothing to lose in the game. If we lose, it will definitely be big news.

“It is our responsibility as players to stay focused on the fundamentals. We should not underestimate them at all. Football requires respect for every opponent. The strength we use against Premier League opponents should also be used to show diversity.”

On Friday, JKT Tanzania advanced to the next round after defeating Mbuni FC 3-0 while Geita Gold lost on penalties to Mashujaa FC.