Yanga SC will take on JKT Tanzania today in a highly anticipated semi-final clash of the CRDB Federation Cup, set to kick off at Mkwakwani Stadium in Tanga.
Speaking to the media in Tanga earlier today, coaches and players from both sides shared their thoughts and expectations ahead of the crucial encounter.
Yanga head coach Miloud Hamdi confirmed that his squad is in good shape, including players who had previously been sidelined by injuries. He noted that the team is well-prepared, although a few key players will miss the match.
"Chadrack Boka is still undergoing treatment, and Bakari Mwanyeto is suspended," Hamdi explained. "But aside from that, the rest of the team is fit and ready. It will be a tough game, but matches like these are about winning. Yanga is a big club—we're here to win and reach the final."
Yanga defender Dickson Job echoed his coach’s confidence, saying the team is determined to defend their title this season.
“We’re ready for the match. Our goal is to retain the trophy and bring it home again,” Job stated.
On the opposing side, JKT Tanzania head coach Ahmad Ally dismissed any notion that their semi-final appearance is by chance.
“Getting to this stage wasn’t luck—it was our objective from the start,” said Ally. “We know we’ll be playing in front of a crowd that is 80% behind Yanga and only 20% behind us, but we’re not intimidated. We’re focused on playing our game.”he added
Acknowledging the strength of their opponents, Ally added, “Yanga are the defending champions and a quality side, no doubt. But this is a battle. We respect them, but we’re here to fight.”
JKT Tanzania midfielder Edward Songo also expressed confidence in his team’s preparation.
“We’ve trained hard and we’re ready. Our aim is clear—to reach the final,” said Songo.As both teams gear up for the clash, football fans across Tanzania are eagerly waiting to see who will rise to the occasion and secure a place in the CRDB Federation Cup final.