Gamondi sets sights on triumph following Yanga's stalemate against Mamelodi Sundowns.
Prince Jean
Apr 3, 2024
Yanga and Mamelodi Sundowns recently engaged in a tightly contested 0-0 draw in the first leg of this season's TotalEnergies CAF Champions League quarterfinal held in Dar es Salaam. The Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, packed with 60,000 football enthusiasts, witnessed a showdown between last season's TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup finalists, Yanga, and the inaugural African Football League (AFL) champions, Mamelodi. Despite the absence of goals, both teams provided ample entertainment, showcasing strategic play and exceptional defensive and goalkeeping displays.
Yanga's head coach, Miguel Gamondi, expressed pride in his team's performance, stating,
"I am very proud of my players. We played very well against one of the best clubs in Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns, and the fans should be very proud of their team today."
He emphasized the tactical battle, acknowledging the absence of key players like Khalid Aucho, Kouassi Yao, and Pacome Zouzoua, while highlighting the impressive performances of others like Jonas Mkude.
Gamondi sees the draw as a significant development, not only for the club but also for Tanzania.
"This game has been widely discussed in Africa, which is positive,"
he remarked, commending the large turnout of fans at the stadium. Looking ahead to the rematch in South Africa, Gamondi stressed the importance of analyzing their performance and addressing shortcomings, acknowledging that the quarter-final games are not just 90 minutes but 180 minutes.
The match saw Sundowns dominating possession, while Yanga responded with swift counter-attacks. Despite several chances for both teams, including a close call from Yanga's Clement Mzize and a crucial save by Sundowns' goalkeeper Ronwen Williams denying Kennedy Musonda, neither side managed to break the deadlock.
Both teams approached the game tactically, attacking cautiously and defending with discipline, resulting in a goalless draw. The rematch is set to take place at Pretoria's Loftus Versfeld Stadium, promising another captivating encounter with the winners advancing to the next stage of the tournament.
