Dube shines as Yanga defeat TS Galaxy FC in Mpumulanga International tournament

Dar es Salaam. A lone goal scored by Prince Dube today, July 24, 2024, was enough for Young Africans (Yanga) to outshine South Africa’s Premier League side, TS Galaxy FC, in the Mpumulanga International tournament.

Dube, who joined Yanga from Azam FC, scored in the 55th minute of the thrilling pre-season encounter held at the Kanyamazane Stadium in Kanyamazane City, South Africa.

This match marked Yanga’s second pre-season game. Their first match was against Bundesliga side FC Augsburg, where the Jangwani Street giants lost 2-1.

Despite the loss, Yanga showcased strong potential, making the current victory even more significant.

Yanga’s head coach, Miguel Gamondi, fielded nearly all the players currently in the pre-season camp in South Africa. Three players, Pacome Zouzoua, Kennedy Musonda, and Shadrack Boka, did not feature in the encounter. This strategy allowed the team to test various formations and player combinations ahead of the competitive season.

In the first half, Gamondi mostly fielded Tanzanian players, starting with Aboutwalib Msheru, Kibwana Shomary, Farid Mussa, Dickson Job, Aziz Andambwile, Mudathir Yahya, Salum “Sure Boy” Abubakar, Clement Mzize, Shekhan Ibrahim, and Dennis Nkane.

The local talents demonstrated commendable skill and coordination, creating a few scoring chances.

Notably, Mzize had a near miss in the 17th minute when he headed out following a good cross from Kibwana Shomary.

TS Galaxy, on the other hand, also played well but missed various scoring opportunities, showing that both teams were evenly matched in terms of defense and attack.

Gamondi made his first substitution in the 30th minute, bringing in Jean Baleke for Shekhan Ibrahim, who seemed to have sustained an injury.

This early substitution showcased Gamondi’s adaptability and quick decision-making under pressure.

Additionally, Gamondi substituted goalkeeper Mshery for new signing Khomeiny Abubakar, who was later replaced by first-choice goalkeeper Djigui Diarra.

This rotation in goalkeepers was a strategic move to assess each player's performance and readiness.

The Argentine tactician made changes to all the starting players in the second half, aiming to ensure each player gained match fitness.

This extensive change allowed Yanga to dominate the game in the latter stages. Their persistent efforts culminated in Prince Dube’s decisive goal, which sealed the victory for Yanga.

This pre-season victory boosts Yanga’s morale and sets a positive tone for their upcoming matches. Yanga will be back in action on Sunday, July 28, 2024, playing against Kaizer Chiefs in the Toyota Cup.

This match will be another opportunity for Yanga to test their skills and strategies against a strong opponent.