Gamondi: I am not underestimating Vital'O

Dar es Salaam. Young Africans (Yanga) head coach, Miguel Gamondi, stressed that he is taking the upcoming match against Burundi’s Vital’O very seriously, despite Yanga’s 4-0 victory in the first leg.

Speaking today, August 23, 2024, at a pre-match press conference in Dar es Salaam, Gamondi made it clear that he does not take first-leg results for granted, as football is a game of two halves, each consisting of 90 minutes.

"We won 4-0 in the first leg, but that was just the first 90 minutes.

We have another 90 minutes ahead, and I am taking them seriously. In football, you can never afford to underestimate your opponent," said Gamondi.

He also said that Vital’O’s technical bench is likely seeking revenge and that they believe they will come back stronger in the second leg.

"I’ve heard what they’re saying ahead of the match, but I’m not paying much attention to their comments.

My focus is on preparing the team to secure another strong victory," he added.

Yanga only need a draw in the upcoming match to advance to the second preliminary round of the competition.

However, if Vital’O manage to overturn the 4-0 deficit, the match could be decided by penalties.

The Jangwani Street giants could potentially face either the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) or Uganda’s SC Villa in the next round.

In their first match in Kampala, CBE secured a 2-1 victory.

Gamondi’s cautious approach reflects his understanding of football’s unpredictability, where no lead is entirely safe until the final whistle.

The coach’s strategy emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus and not allowing complacency to creep into the team’s mindset.

Yanga’s 4-0 victory in the first leg showcased their dominance, but Gamondi is aware that Vital’O will come into the second leg with a renewed sense of determination.

The Burundian side, no doubt, will be motivated to turn the tables and put pressure on Yanga from the outset.

Gamondi’s remarks also highlight his respect for the opposition, understanding that any team can pose a threat, especially when they have nothing to lose.

His focus remains on preparing Yanga to approach the second leg with the same intensity and determination that they displayed in the first.

For Yanga, the task is clear: avoid complacency, stay disciplined, and continue to execute the game plan that brought them success in the first leg.

 The team’s performance in the upcoming match will be crucial in determining their progression in the CAF Champions League.

Vital’O, on the other hand, will be fighting to keep their hopes alive.

They will likely adopt an aggressive approach, knowing that they have a mountain to climb to overcome the deficit.

Their coach will undoubtedly rally his players to give their all in what could be a defining match for their season.

As Yanga prepares for this critical second leg, the fans and the entire Jangwani community will be hoping for another commanding performance that will see them through to the next round.

With the possibility of facing either CBE or SC Villa in the second preliminary round, Yanga will be eager to maintain their winning momentum and continue their journey in the prestigious competition.