Kenyan international Duke Abuya was among the scorers as Yanga SC triumphed 5-0 over lower-tier side Copco FC in the CRDB Bank Federation Cup, bouncing back in style after their early exit from the CAF Champions League.
Yanga, who were knocked out of the CAF Champions League group stages after a goalless draw against MC Alger, looked determined to make a statement in this cup clash.
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The Tanzanian giants wasted no time in asserting their dominance. In the opening minute, Aziz Ki’s powerful free-kick rattled the crossbar, setting the tone for an intense start. Just eight minutes later, Sheikhan Ibrahim also came close, hitting the woodwork again after a well-timed shot. Ki remained a constant menace to Copco’s defence, but the Lucas Milingwa coached-side held firm in the opening stages.
Yanga finally found a breakthrough in the 35th minute, Ferad Ibrahim’s corner kick found Sheikhan Ibrahim, who rose highest to head the ball into the net, giving Yanga a deserved 1-0 lead. The goal sparked the record Tanzania Premier League Champions into full gear as they entered the break with a slender advantage.
The second half saw Yanga make changes, with Aziz Ki being replaced by Kibwana Shomari. The move paid immediate dividends as Yanga doubled their lead in the 57th minute. A brilliant pass from debutant Israel Mwenda found Prince Dube, who made no mistake, finishing coolly to make it 2-0.
Yanga’s clinical finishing continued just 11 minutes later. Maxi Nzingeli was brought down inside the box by Copco’s Yusuf Amos, earning Yanga a penalty. Nzingeli stepped up and cheekily converted with a panenka, sending Copco goalkeeper Joseph Adam the wrong way and making it 3-0 in the 68th minute.
With the match firmly in their control, Yanga weren’t done. In the 78th minute, Kibabage made a brilliant run down the left wing and delivered a perfectly weighted cross into the box. Duke Abuya was there to meet it, heading the ball past Adam to make it 4-0.
Yanga added one final nail in the 84th minute, with Israel Mwenda once again turning provider. His cross from the right was expertly headed home by Mudathir Yahya, sealing the 5-0 victory for Yanga in dominant fashion.
The win was a much-needed boost for Yanga after their continental disappointment, and Abuya’s goal will surely enhance his confidence as the team looks to reclaim domestic glory.
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