Zanzibar. Young Africans SC began their CAF Champions League group-stage campaign with a commanding 1–0 victory over Morocco’s FAR Rabat in a tense encounter played at the Amaan Complex in Zanzibar.
The match, at Amaan offered Yanga the perfect platform to set the tone for their continental ambitions, and they did just that with an energetic and tactically disciplined performance.
From the first whistle, Yanga showed clear intent. Their pressing was sharp, their ball movement crisp, and their connection between midfield and attack looked far more synchronised than in previous outings.
The early exchanges saw the Tanzanian champions dictate tempo, forcing FAR Rabat to sit deeper than planned.
The breakthrough arrived through Prince Dube, the Zimbabwean forward who has become increasingly influential for Yanga in recent months.
Dube capitalised on a well-constructed move to slot home the match’s only goal, sending the green-and-yellow stands into raptures.
His cool finish reflected the confidence with which he led the line throughout the match.
Beyond the goal, Yanga’s attacking display was backed by impressive statistics.
They produced 15 total shots, nine of which were on target, highlighting their sustained offensive threat.
FAR Rabat, by contrast, managed only a single shot on target in the entire ninety minutes, a testament to Yanga’s defensive solidity.
Expected Goals (xG) data further underlined Yanga’s superiority.
They accumulated an xG of 2.21, a figure indicative of multiple quality chances created, while FAR Rabat finished with just 0.34 xG.
The Moroccans struggled to find rhythm, constantly smothered by Yanga’s compact defensive structure. Possession was almost evenly split, with Yanga edging it at 51 percent.
However, possession alone failed to tell the story; Yanga’s use of the ball was more purposeful, progressive, and dangerous in the final third.
Their wide play, in particular, stretched the opposition backline and enabled frequent entries into the box.
The midfield trio worked tirelessly to maintain control.
Their ability to switch play quickly allowed Yanga to bypass FAR Rabat’s pressing attempts and keep the visitors on the defensive.
This midfield dominance provided the platform upon which the win was built.
Defensively, Yanga were equally impressive.
They neutralised FAR Rabat’s counter-attacks with intelligent positioning and timely interceptions.
The centre-backs exhibited excellent communication, ensuring that no gaps were left for the Moroccan attackers to exploit.
Set-pieces also contributed to Yanga’s territorial advantage.
They won seven corner kicks compared to FAR Rabat’s three, putting constant aerial pressure on their opponents.
Although none resulted in a goal, they created several nervy moments for the Moroccan goalkeeper.
The match atmosphere at Amaan Complex added another layer of intensity.
Yanga fans in Zanzibar created a lively backdrop, despite the neutral designation of the venue.
Their energy seemed to spur the players on, especially during the closing moments when FAR Rabat attempted to push forward.
As the final whistle blew, the Yanga bench erupted in celebration.
The victory was not only a positive start, but a strong statement to the rest of the group.
It showcased the team’s maturity, discipline, and readiness to compete at a higher level this season.
Attention now shifts to their second group match, an away fixture in Algeria against JS Kabylie scheduled for November 28.
It will be a tough test in front of a passionate home crowd, but Yanga will travel with renewed belief following their opening win.
The challenge in Algeria will revolve around maintaining the same intensity, especially in midfield battles and transitional phases.
Yanga will need to remain defensively alert and convert their chances efficiently, knowing that opportunities away from home can be limited.
