YOUNG Africans (Yanga) are focusing on a fresh start after the international break, determined to overcome recent setbacks in the NBC Premier League and perform strongly in their upcoming CAF Champions League group stage opener against Al Hilal.

The club recently announced a significant overhaul in its coaching staff, appointing Saed Ramovic as the new head coach, with Mustapha Kodro serving as his assistant. 

Additionally, Abdihalim Moallin, who has previously managed KMC FC and Azam FC, has joined as the team's new technical director, bringing a wealth of experience to guide the club strategically.

This leadership reshuffle comes in the wake of disappointing results, including a 1-0 loss to Azam FC and a 3-1 defeat to Tabora United, which have raised concerns among fans and stakeholders. The club hopes the new team can reinvigorate its performance, particularly with the critical CAF Champions League fixtures ahead.

Coach Ramovic has already begun working with the squad, taking advantage of the international break to implement tactical adjustments and reinforce the team’s mentality. 

Young Africans' Media and Information Manager, Ali Kamwe (pictured), expressed optimism about the club's direction under its new leadership.

“We’re optimistic about bouncing back and securing a victory in our upcoming match against Al Hilal,” Kamwe said. “Our new coach, Ramovic, is relatively unknown, which can work in our favour by reducing external pressures. We’re hopeful he can replicate the success of coaches like Nasreddine Nabi and Miguel Gamondi.”

Kamwe highlighted the importance of the international break, stating that it allowed the team to reassess its performance and address weaknesses.

“The players are highly motivated to return to winning ways. Both domestic and continental success are priorities, and we’re confident we can turn things around and achieve our goals,” Kamwe added.

Young Africans currently sit second in the NBC Premier League table with 24 points, stemming from eight wins and two losses. Despite their recent dip in form, the team remains confident in their ability to recover and make a strong impression both domestically and in the CAF Champions League.

This marks the side’s second consecutive appearance in the CAF Champions League group stage. Their upcoming clash with Al Hilal carries historical significance: in the 2021/2022 CAF Champions League qualifiers, Al Hilal defeated Young Africans 2-1 on aggregate, relegating them to the CAF Confederation Cup, where they went on to reach the finals.

Last season, Young Africans advanced to the CAF Champions League quarterfinals but were eliminated by Mamelodi Sundowns in a dramatic penalty shootout.

With the first group stage match set against Al Hilal, Young Africans aim to avenge past losses and establish themselves as serious contenders. 

The squad is expected to be at full strength following the return of players from AFCON qualifiers, a boost that Coach Ramovic will undoubtedly welcome as he seeks to instil a winning culture.

As the team gears up for their CAF campaign, fans and management alike are hopeful that the recent changes will yield positive results, revitalizing the club and solidifying its status as a powerhouse in African football.