Dar es Salaam. After enduring a 11 match goal drought in the Tanzania Premier League, Yanga striker Prince Dube finally broke his dry spell in spectacular fashion on December 19, 2024.
The Zimbabwean forward scored a hat-trick in a thrilling 3-2 victory against Mashujaa FC at the KMC Complex, Mwenge here in the city.
This marked a turning point for Dube, whose struggles earlier in the season had raised questions about his form and confidence.
The images of him receiving prayers after the match quickly went viral, sparking debate over whether his newfound form was a result of spiritual intervention or tactical adjustments by Yanga’s coaching staff.
As Dube has now scored five league goals and provided two assists, the question remains, what exactly has reignited his sharpness in front of goal?
While many credit the prayers seen in those viral images, Yanga’s technical bench, led by head coach Sead Ramovic, played a pivotal role in the striker’s resurgence.
Tactical challenges and psychological rebuilding
Yanga found themselves in a difficult position as injuries to key striker Kennedy Musonda and inconsistent performances from Clement Mzize left Ramovic with limited options up front.
The coach had no choice, but to put his faith in Dube and work tirelessly to rebuild his confidence.
According to Ramovic, the key lay in psychological preparation.
He spent hours in one-on-one sessions with Dube, helping the striker regain self-belief.
The team also made tactical adjustments to ensure Dube received more goal-scoring opportunities, focusing on enhancing service from the wings and midfield.
Dube’s resurgence began in the CAF Champions League on December 14, 2024, during a crucial match against TP Mazembe.
With Yanga trailing late in the game, Dube stepped up to score a dramatic equalizer in stoppage time, salvaging a 1-1 draw and keeping their hopes alive in the competition.
A turning point
After that performance, Dube took a bold step, he decided to step away from social media to escape the mounting pressure from fans and critics alike.
This allowed him to focus solely on his game, and the results were almost immediate.
Just five days later, Dube delivered a scintillating performance against Mashujaa, scoring three goals and proving that his slump was a thing of the past.
He followed up that performance with impressive displays against Tanzania Prisons and Dodoma Jiji, further solidifying his return to form.
Fans pin hopes on Dube
Yanga fans, once skeptical of Dube’s abilities, are now fully behind him.
Their faith in the Zimbabwean forward is particularly high ahead of the upcoming CAF Champions League clash against TP Mazembe on January 4, 2025, at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
This fixture is crucial for Yanga, who sit at the bottom of Group A with just one point.
To keep their dream of reaching the quarterfinals alive for a second consecutive season, Yanga must secure victories in their remaining three group-stage matches—two at home and one away.
Dube’s impact on Yanga’s campaign
Dube’s recent form has not only reignited hope among fans, but also reenergized the entire Yanga squad.
His ability to perform under pressure, as seen in the match against TP Mazembe, could be the deciding factor in their Champions League journey.
With their domestic league campaign also heating up, Yanga will rely heavily on Dube to continue delivering match-winning performances.
His newfound confidence, combined with tactical support from the coaching staff, makes him a key player in Yanga’s aspirations this season.
Ramovic’s role in Dube’s revival
Speaking about Dube’s transformation, head coach Sead Ramovic said:
“Prince is a naturally talented striker, but his struggles were more psychological than technical.”
Adding: “We focused on rebuilding his confidence by emphasizing his strengths and creating an environment where he could thrive. The team also worked on improving the supply of balls to him in critical areas.”
Ramovic also highlighted Dube’s work ethic in training as a key factor in his resurgence.
According to the coach, Dube’s determination to silence his critics and prove his worth has been instrumental in his recent performances.
A pivotal moment for Yanga
As Yanga prepares for their must-win encounter against TP Mazembe, all eyes will be on Dube.
The striker’s ability to replicate his league form on the continental stage will be crucial if Yanga is to keep their Champions League hopes alive.
With fans rallying behind him and the coaching staff providing unwavering support, Dube is poised to lead Yanga to greater heights this season.
His journey from a goal drought to becoming Yanga’s talisman serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, tactical insight, and collective belief.
Now, the stage is set for Dube to shine once more and cement his place as one of Yanga’s most important players.
