Yanga interim coach proud of team’s fight and fitness in CRDB Federation Cup quarterfinal

On Saturday, defending champions Young Africans SC (Yanga) booked their place in the semi-finals of the CRDB Federation Cup for the fifth consecutive season after defeating JKT Tanzania 2-0 in a thrilling quarter-final clash at the Major Isamuhyo Stadium.

The victory was a strong response from Yanga following their recent 3-2 NBC Premier League defeat to Dodoma Jiji FC, which had ended their unbeaten league run this season. Despite concerns about fatigue and recovery after a demanding schedule, Yanga produced a composed and dominant display to continue their title defence.

Speaking after the match, interim coach Abdi Hamid Moallin praised his players for their determination and physical readiness, admitting the fixture was one of the toughest tests the team had faced in recent weeks.

Moallin explained that recovering in time and preparing for such a high-intensity knockout encounter had not been easy, especially after the team’s recent trip to Singida. However, he expressed pride in the way his squad handled the challenge.

“To recover in time and still be ready to give that kind of effort was difficult, but credit to the players because they did really well,” said Moallin. “I am very proud of them because physically they showed they were ready for this kind of game.”

The tactician described knockout matches as mentally and physically demanding because there is no room for mistakes. According to him, both teams entered the contest fully aware that only victory would guarantee progress to the next stage.

“Cup games are always difficult because there is no tomorrow and no draw. Somebody has to win,” he said. “Both teams came ready to fight, but we trusted our experience and quality.”

Yanga took the lead in the 33rd minute after JKT Tanzania defender Hassan Wahabi accidentally diverted the ball into his own net while trying to clear a dangerous cross from Chadrack Boka.

Just six minutes later, midfielder Mudathir Yahaya doubled the advantage with a calm finish after receiving a clever pass from Pacome Zouzoua.

 

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Moallin happy with Yanga’s strong start

Moallin admitted his side were excellent in the first half but noted that the intensity dropped slightly towards the end of the second half due to fatigue. Even so, he remained satisfied with the overall performance and result.

“The first half was very good. In the second half we dropped a little bit, but that was expected after such a demanding schedule,” he added. “The most important thing is that we reached the semi-finals.”

The Yanga coach also praised JKT Tanzania for being organised and difficult to break down defensively.

Meanwhile, Coastal Union FC also advanced to the semi-finals after defeating Singida Black Stars 4-2 on penalties following a goalless draw at the Mkwakwani Stadium.