Yanga starts CAF match preparations as Coastal Union departs for Angola

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania's representatives in the CAF Confederation Cup, Coastal Union departed for Angola on August 14, 2024, ahead of their first-leg encounter against Onze Bravos Do Maquis. 

Meanwhile, Mainland Champions Young Africans (Yanga) have returned to residential camp to prepare for their CAF Champions League match against Vital’O of Burundi.

Coastal Union's squad includes 22 players for the match scheduled to take place at the Estádio Mundunduleno in Luena on Saturday (August 17, 2024) at 6pm East African Time.

This marks the first time the Tanga-based team is competing in the tournament.

Head coach David Ouma expressed confidence in his team, stating that all players are ready and focused on securing a positive result despite playing away.

The team's morale has been boosted by the return of their first-choice goalkeeper, Ley Matampi, who missed several matches, including those in the Community Shield. 

"My players are in high spirits ahead of the encounter, and we are targeting the best results. We have addressed all the mistakes that hindered our performance in the Community Shield matches," said Ouma.

In the meantime, following their strong performance in the Community Shield, Yanga players have re-entered their residential camp in preparation for their CAF Champions League match against Vital’O.

The match is set for 4pm at the Azam Complex on August 17, 2024, with the team reporting that all players are in good health.

A team leader told The Citizen that the players are determined to make Tanzanians proud and perform at their best in the competition.

"We played tough matches in South Africa and Tanzania, and our main concern was avoiding injuries. The good news is that all players are in good health and ready for the matches," said the source.

Also in action this weekend are Azam FC, who will face APR of Rwanda at the Azam Complex on Sunday at 6 PM East African Time.

These preliminary matches are crucial as the teams aim to advance to the next stage of their respective competitions. 

The winner between Yanga and Vital’O will face the winner of the match between CBE of Ethiopia and SC Villa of Uganda, with a spot in the group stage at stake. 

Similarly, the victor between Azam FC and APR will meet the winner of the match between JKU of Zanzibar and Pyramids FC of Egypt.

If Coastal Union advances past Bravos do Maquis, they will face FC Lupopo of DR Congo in the second preliminary round.