YOUNG Africans (Yanga) are set to begin their quest for a third consecutive CAF Champions League group stage appearance with a crucial away match against Angolan side Wiliete SC.

The first leg of this preliminary round fixture will take place this afternoon at the Estadio 11 de Novembro in Luanda, with kickoff slated for 6 p.m. EAT. Young Africans head into this encounter with immense confidence, propelled by an impressive run of form. The Tanzanian champions are currently on a 23-match unbeaten streak across all competitions and have won their last 12 consecutive games. 

 This dominant run includes two recent derby victories against their arch-rivals Simba SC, with the most recent win - a 1-0 triumph on Tuesday - providing a significant morale boost for the squad. This match marks Young Africans’ first encounter with an Angolan opponent since the 2016/2017 CAF Confederation Cup, where they eliminated Esperanca Sagrada from the playoffs. 

 The club's leadership is well aware of the challenge that lies ahead. Young Africans CEO, Andre Mtine (pictured), emphasized that the team is fully prepared for the game but cautioned against underestimating their opponents.

 "Our opponents are a strong side" Mtine stated upon the team's arrival in Angola. "Our technical bench has conducted a thorough analysis of their squad, and we know we have to fight to perform well. I ask the fans to continue to pray for us, and I am confident we will get a positive result," he said.

 Wiliete SC finished second in the Angolan league during the 2024-2025 season, which secured them their first-ever CAF Champions League spot. 

 The club was founded on September 14, 2018, and uses the 35,000-capacity Estádio Nacional de Ombaka in Benguela as their home ground. Despite their recent founding, their rapid rise through the ranks to qualify for this prestigious tournament makes them a formidable adversary.

 Young Africans’ offensive charge will be spearheaded by key players Clement Mzize, Pacome Zouzoua, and Prince Dube, who are expected to provide the much-needed goals to secure a crucial away advantage. 

 A strong result in Luanda would set them up favorably for the return leg, scheduled for Saturday, September 27, at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam. The winners of this tie will advance to face the winners of the match between Elgeco Plus of Madagascar and Silver Strikers of Malawi.