Musonda says winning in Africa is now our biggest ambition

Dar es Salaam. Young Africans SC striker Kennedy Musonda says that while the club’s dominance in Tanzania is appreciated by its ever-growing fanbase, the team is now more determined than ever to achieve continental success.

The Tanzanian champions suffered a shock 2-0 loss at home against Sudanese side Al Hilal last week—a result they will need to quickly overcome in today’s match against Algerian side MC Alger.

The Zambian striker shared his thoughts on the team’s continental ambitions and what it will take to go beyond last season’s quarterfinal finish.

Musonda attributes his exceptional performance since joining the club to hard work and the team spirit at Young Africans.

“I’ve had the right players around me and a family that believes in me,” he said. “Having a positive environment, along with hardworking teammates and coaches, really helps and improves you as a player.”

Reflecting on the team’s domestic league position—third in the standings behind Azam and Simba—Musonda remains unfazed. “I think it’s a marathon and not a sprint.

It’s too early to write us off,” he noted. “In football, there are ups and downs, but the most important thing is how you finish. We’ll work hard to reclaim our spot.”

Addressing the team’s disappointing start in the CAF Champions League, Musonda believes the team knows how to recover.

 “For the past two to three seasons, we’ve lost the opening group game twice in a row. I’m not saying we’re used to it, but we know how to respond, and that’s what we need to do this weekend,” he said. “The result was disappointing, but we have to move past it and focus on the big task ahead.”

Ahead of the crucial away clash against MC Alger, Musonda emphasized the importance of a strong mentality.

“The most important thing is to focus on the next game and not dwell on the previous result,” he said. “We need to give 100 percent and make sure we step up. It’s an away game against a strong opponent, but at this level, you have to stay focused and committed no matter where you’re playing.”

With all teams in the group capable of advancing, Musonda underscored the significance of mental toughness in the remaining matches.

 “Mental toughness is number one. If you’re mentally prepared, your body reacts accordingly. When the entire team is mentally on the same level, it gives us an added competitive edge,” he explained.

Looking at the team’s progress in recent years, Musonda is optimistic about their chances of becoming African champions.

“We’re definitely a team to watch. We reached the CAF Confederation Cup final and made it to the Champions League quarterfinals. The key is to build on that progress,” he said. “I believe we have a chance to win the Champions League in the future.”

On a personal level, Musonda has his sights set on winning the CAF Champions League this season. “Yanga target win as well as trophies. We’ve won everything domestically, but what remains is achieving victory in Africa. That is now our biggest ambition,” he concluded.