Mainland Premier League leaders Yanga SC will be seeking to strengthen their grip on the title race when they take on Mashujaa FC at Lake Tanganyika Stadium in Kigoma, with both sides expressing confidence ahead of the eagerly awaited encounter.
The fixture marks the resumption of domestic league action following the recent FIFA international break, with both teams aiming to return to competition on a positive note.
Yanga assistant coach Hamad Moallin said the defending champions had fully utilized the break to fine-tune their preparations and ensure the squad is ready for the challenges that lie ahead.
According to Moallin, the players are in high spirits and determined to maintain the club’s momentum in its pursuit of a fifth consecutive Mainland Premier League title.
“Mashujaa are a good side and we respect them just as we respect every opponent we face. We understand the challenge ahead of us, but we have come to Kigoma with one objective — to secure all three points,” said Moallin.
He stressed that there are no easy matches in the Premier League, noting that every team is fighting for points and survival, making each fixture equally important.
“It does not matter whether we are facing a team at the top, middle or bottom of the table. Every match is like a final for us. Our ambition is to win the league title again, and every point is crucial in achieving that goal,” he added.
On the opposite bench, Mashujaa head coach Jamhuri Kihwelu, popularly known as Julio, believes his side has what it takes to challenge the reigning champions despite acknowledging the quality and experience within the Yanga squad.
“We know Yanga very well and we respect them because they have quality players and a strong winning culture. However, we have prepared thoroughly and we are confident of producing a strong performance in front of our home supporters,” said Julio.
The experienced tactician pointed to his previous record against Yanga while coaching different clubs, saying his teams have often managed to compete strongly against the league giants.
“I have faced Yanga many times while coaching clubs such as Simba, Kagera Sugar and Mwadui. We have always approached those matches with belief and discipline, and in many cases we achieved positive results. We expect another competitive contest,” he said.
Meanwhile, Yanga Information and Communications Manager Ally Kamwe praised the club’s supporters in Kigoma for the warm reception they gave the team upon arrival.
Kamwe said the overwhelming support from fans has further motivated the players and technical bench ahead of the important fixture.
“We are grateful to our supporters for the remarkable welcome they gave us. Their support means a lot to the team. The best way to repay them is by fighting for victory and returning with all three points,” he said.
He added that while Yanga expects a difficult encounter, the club remains confident that the experience, quality and determination within the squad will be key factors in the quest for another league victory.
With Yanga determined to keep their title ambitions firmly on track and Mashujaa eager to make a statement on home soil, all signs point to an exciting and fiercely contested battle in Kigoma.
