DEFENDING champions Young Africans Sports Club (Yanga) extended their lead at the top of the Mainland Premier League table with a commanding 3-0 victory over Namungo FC at the KMC Complex in Dar es Salaam yesterday.

First-half goals from Stephane Aziz Ki and Prince Dube, followed by a second-half strike from Maxi Nzengeli, sealed the crucial win for Young Africans as they edge closer to securing their fourth consecutive league title.

Young Africans now sit top of the table with 73 points from 27 matches, four points ahead of rivals Simba SC, who have played one game less and are on 69 points. With just two games remaining, every point is vital in this tightly contested title race.

The Jangwani Street giants entered the match in top form, having won their previous five games. Their attacking intent was clear from the outset. 

Aziz Ki fired a warning shot in the 17th minute, hitting the side netting, and his corner moments later was safely gathered by Namungo goalkeeper Jonathan Nahimana.

The pressure paid off in the 26th minute when Aziz Ki unleashed a powerful drive after a slick one-two with Nzengeli to open the scoring. 

Just four minutes later, Dube doubled the lead, turning in a low shot after receiving a cross from Kibwana Shomari.

Nahimana was kept busy and produced a fine double save in stoppage time of the first half, denying both Aziz Ki and Dube.

In the second half, Nzengeli squandered a clear opportunity in the 67th minute before making amends in the 73rd minute, slotting home from a cross by substitute Israel Mwenda to make it 3-0.

Nahimana continued to impress, pulling off another save in added time by denying substitute Kenneth Musonda, whose rebound attempt flew over the bar.

Young Africans’ consistency in both attack and defense has been a hallmark of their campaign. They have now scored 71 goals and conceded just 10, with 24 wins, one draw, and two losses.

With a high-stakes Dar es Salaam Derby against Simba SC looming on June 15, potentially deciding the title, Young Africans will need to maintain their momentum. 

Before that, they face an away fixture against Tanzania Prisons, followed by a home match against Dodoma Jiji to close out the season.

Meanwhile, Namungo FC, who sit 10th with 31 points from 28 matches, are still fighting to avoid being dragged into the relegation battle. 

They are only four points above 14th-placed Pamba Jiji, who currently occupy the relegation playoff spot. Namungo’s remaining matches include a home tie against Kagera Sugar and an away trip to KenGold.