YOUNG Africans SC (Yanga) head coach Romain Folz insists that pressure is simply part of the job as his side prepares to face arch rivals Simba SC in today’s Community Shield clash — the traditional curtain-raiser to the NBC Premier League season.

Speaking to the media on the eve of the highly anticipated derby, Folz (pictured) struck a calm and measured tone, making it clear that the magnitude of the occasion does not alter his approach.

“Pressure is always part of the game. The question is how you handle it and how you approach it,” Folz said. “For me, in any big match or in any big club environment, the pressure is always there — and it should be.”

The French-Moroccan tactician acknowledged that the context of the match - the first competitive meeting between the two Tanzanian giants this season - naturally heightens expectations. But he was quick to dismiss any suggestion that the weight of the occasion would affect his preparations.

“Does it give us any extra pressure? No,” Folz explained. “We would approach it the same way even if the context was different. Our focus is on performance, on producing the right outcome. That does not change.”

Folz reflected on Young Africans’ final pre-season outing, which saw him rotate heavily and give minutes to a wide range of players. He admitted the performance came in “patches,” but stressed that the priority was player fitness, avoiding injuries, and giving his squad a chance to get match sharpness before the derby.

“It was interesting, but can be much better,” he said. “The important thing is that everyone got a chance to perform in front of our fans and that we came through without injuries. That’s what mattered most for that game.”

One area of focus heading into the new campaign is Young Africans midfield, particularly after the departure of long-serving star Khalid Aucho. But Folz insisted he has no concerns over the balance of his team and named several players who could step into the defensive midfield role.

“Whoever I choose to start tomorrow will deliver,” Folz said confidently. “Whether it’s Bala Conte, Aziz, or even Duke — we have several players who can play there and perform well. I am not concerned at all about that position.”

With Simba also boasting a strong midfield unit, the tactical battle in the centre of the pitch is expected to be a defining factor. Folz was clear that the outcome will come down to organisation, discipline, and execution on the day.

“When you have a game like this with two good teams, it comes down to who is most organised and who has the best approach,” he said. “We will do what we need to do to make sure it’s us.”