Diaspora, Africa – (African Boulevard News) – Young Africans (Yanga) secured a vital first-leg advantage in the CAF Confederation Cup play-off after defeating Marumo Gallants 2-0 in a highly competitive encounter in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday.
Stephan Aziz Ki put the hosts ahead in the 63rd minute, slotting past Gallants keeper Sikhumbuzo Ncube. Yanga were by now in full control of the game, but they kept pushing for a safety net goal. This came in extra time, when substitute Bernard Morrison showed great composure before slotting calmly beyond Ncube, to seal a comfortable win for the Tanzanian giants.
The game was closely contested, with both teams fielding strong sides. Yanga’s tactical nous, however, proved superior, earning them a deserved victory. Gallants had numerous chances to score, but poor finishing and a resolute Yanga defence meant they just couldn’t find the back of the net.
Yanga’s coach, Cedric Kaze, was impressed with his side’s performance: “The boys played well. They stuck to the game plan and executed it perfectly. Gallants are a good side, but they couldn’t break us down. We’ll take this advantage going into the second leg.”
Gallants’ coach, Mamelodi Sundowns, was, however, left to rue his team’s missed chances: “We had enough opportunities to win the game, but we didn’t take them. We’ll continue working hard and hope to turn things around in the second leg.”
The second leg promises to be a mouth-watering affair, with both teams evenly matched. Yanga will be hoping to maintain their lead and seal their place in the CAF Confederation Cup group stages, while Gallants will be looking to overturn the deficit and progress to the next round.
The Tanzanian side will be buoyed by their electric home support, which is set to be a major factor in the return leg. The Gallants, on the other hand, have their work cut out for them, but their fighting spirit and determination will keep them in good stead.
In conclusion, Yanga’s 2-0 win over Gallants was well-deserved. They showed great discipline and tactical nous in a closely contested encounter, securing a vital first-leg advantage. The second leg promises to be a cracker, with both sides evenly matched.
