Mwanza. Yanga’s title chase is heating up after their commanding 3-0 win over Pamba Jiji this evening, with new signing Jonathan Ikangalombo making his debut, and star forward Stephane Aziz Ki scoring twice.
The win, secured at CCM Kirumba Stadium, marked their 19th victory in 22 matches, as they extended their lead at the top of the table with 58 points and 58 goals.
The team is now preparing for the eagerly anticipated Kariakoo Derby against Simba next Saturday at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
The match saw a stellar performance from Yanga’s left-back, Shadrack Boka, who opened the scoring with a well-executed free-kick in the 28th minute.
Boka’s goal, his first for the team since joining in the current season, set the tone for what followed.
Aziz Ki then took over, scoring twice to seal the victory—first with a header in the 75th minute after a perfect assist from Maxi Nzengeli, and then with a thunderous shot two minutes later, bringing his tally to seven goals for the season.
Maxi’s assist brought his total to six.
This win also marked the fifth consecutive triumph for Yanga under coach Miloud Hamdi, who took over the reins in early February.
Since his arrival, Hamdi has guided Yanga through six matches, including dominant victories over Ken Gold (6-1), Mashujaa (5-0), JKT Tanzania (0-0), Singida Black Stars (2-1), and KMC (6-1).
As for Pamba Jiji, this defeat leaves them in 12th place with 22 points, their seventh loss under coach Fredy Felix ‘Minziro’, who joined in October 2024.
Despite the efforts of wingers like Zabona Mayombya, Pamba struggled to convert their chances, with numerous attacks falling short.
In preparation for the upcoming Kariakoo Derby against Simba, coach Hamdi opted to rest key players, including Dickson Job and Pacome Zouzoua.
Khalid Aucho, who had been instrumental in Yanga’s midfield, was substituted in the second half to avoid injury risks.
These strategic changes highlight the team’s focus on their next big challenge.
Ikangalombo’s debut
Jonathan Ikangalombo, a new signing from DR Congo, made his highly anticipated debut in the 69th minute.
His entry added depth to Yanga’s squad, and his speed and agility have already sparked excitement among the fans.
His debut could be a game-changer for Yanga as they prepare for their crucial showdown against Simba in the Kariakoo Derby on March 8, 2025, at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
With this win, Yanga has sent a strong message to their rivals.
They are firmly on track to claim the title and head into the Derby with confidence and momentum.
