Dar es Salaam. A sense of calm and optimism has begun to return to Young Africans SC as players and fans rally behind their new Portuguese tactician, Pedro Gonçalves.
This comes after an uncertain spell that followed the departure of Frenchman Romain Folz, the reigning Tanzanian champions now look revitalised sharper, hungrier, and more connected both on and off the pitch.
For weeks, Yanga supporters had been voicing concerns about the team’s rhythm and identity.
The early part of the season lacked the fluidity and attacking chemistry that defined their previous campaigns. But with Gonçalves at the helm, that narrative is beginning to change.
The coach, who took over officially on October 25, 2025, has made an instant impact guiding Yanga to back-to-back league wins, including a commanding 4–1 victory over KMC.
His arrival seems to have injected new tactical discipline and confidence into the squad, with senior players openly praising his methods.
Job: “We’ve embraced the coach and his vision”
Assistant captain Dickson Job believes Gonçalves’ emphasis on intelligent, possession-based football has already started to shape the team’s identity.
The Tanzanian defender said the coach has been clear about his philosophy a blend of creativity, patience, and purpose.
“We’ve received the coach very well, and you can already see changes from our last two matches,” Job said.
“He wants us to play organised, attacking football with confidence, short passes, and structure. It’s not entirely new to us, but he has brought a refreshing focus on movement and planning. If we keep improving, this team will reach another level.”
Job added that Gonçalves has worked on restoring belief among the players, encouraging them to take responsibility and enjoy their football again.
“He keeps telling us to trust our abilities, to be calm on the ball, and to take risks in the right areas. That mindset is helping us rediscover who we are as a team.”
Pacome’s leadership and the spirit of togetherness
While Job highlighted tactics, Ivorian playmaker Pacome Zouzoua spoke about something deeper the collective spirit growing within the dressing room.
He said that Yanga’s recent success stems not only from new tactics but also from renewed unity and empathy among the players.
During the KMC match, Zouzoua made headlines after voluntarily giving a penalty to striker Andy Boyeli, even though he himself was on a brace. The decision was not spontaneous it was a show of leadership and team spirit.
“I had already scored, but I wanted Boyeli to get on the scoresheet too,” Zouzoua revealed.
“Strikers need goals to feel confident, and I know what it means when a forward goes several games without scoring. I was happy to see him score twice after that.”
He added that such gestures strengthen trust and morale within the team.
“We must all be on the same page before the CAF Champions League games begin. Whether it’s Boyeli, Prince Dube, or anyone else we want everyone to feel important and ready. That’s how strong teams grow.”
Yanga’s dominant display against KMC
The win over KMC on November 9, 2025, at the KMC Complex was a statement of intent.
Yanga showed attacking variety and composure throughout the match, with Maxi Nzengeli opening the scoring before Pacome Zouzoua and Andy Boyeli took over.
Boyeli netted twice one from the penalty spot while Darueshi Saliboko scored the consolation goal for KMC.
That result placed Yanga at the summit of the NBC Premier League, collecting 10 points from four games a sign of stability returning after a turbulent start.
Next stop
Yanga’s focus now turns to continental football, where they will face AS FAR Rabat of Morocco on November 22, 2025, in a crucial CAF Champions League Group B fixture at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar.
This will be Gonçalves’ third match in charge and his first international test with the Tanzanian giants. Having impressed domestically, the Portuguese coach is eager to extend that form to Africa’s biggest stage.
“These players have the quality and mentality to compete anywhere,” he was quoted saying after the KMC victory. “Our goal is to play brave, attacking football and represent Tanzania with pride.”
