Ndumbaro: Yanga, Simba need to avoid complacency
What you need to know:
- Yanga are set to face Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) on September 14, with the return leg scheduled for September 21.
- Simba will take on Al Ahly Tripoli of Libya on September 14.
Dar es Salaam. Culture, Arts, and Sports minister Damas Ndumbaro, has urged Young Africans (Yanga) and Simba to avoid being complacent as they prepare for the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup respectively.
In an interview with The Citizen, Ndumbaro emphasized the importance of taking their opponents seriously despite previous successes.
Yanga are set to face Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) on September 14, with the return leg scheduled for September 21 at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
Simba will take on Al Ahly Tripoli of Libya on September 14 at Tripoli International Stadium, followed by the return leg at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
The aggregate winners will advance to the group stages of each competition.
Ndumbaro made the comment following Yanga’s impressive performance in the first preliminary round.
He said Yanga need to remain well-focused, noting that CBE are a strong team that should not be underestimated.
He pointed out that the high-altitude and cold climate in Ethiopia could pose a challenge to Yanga, who are accustomed to a warmer climate.
“This is just a reminder to Yanga that they are going to play in cold weather, which they need to acclimatize accordingly.
Their training should reflect this, Despite this, we have confidence in their squad, which is full of committed and talented players.
We are very proud of them,” Ndumbaro advised
Regarding Simba, he said he acknowledged the challenge posed by North African teams, known for their strength.
He advised Simba to focus on delivering a strong performance in the first leg to increase their chances of advancing.
“The best way to progress is to perform well in the first leg.
Both Yanga and Simba need to understand this and plan their strategies accordingly,” Ndumbaro added.
He said he is well aware of the uphill task that Simba are facing.
"Simba have a tall mountain to climb, as North African teams are notoriously tough.
The key to progressing to the next stage is to perform well in the first leg.
Yanga and Simba need to be aware of this and plan their strategies accordingly," the minister insisted
