Young Africans of Tanzania crushed Burundi’s Vital’O 4-0 in the first leg of their CAF Champions League qualifier on Saturday. The Dar es Salaam-based club showcased their prowess in the prestigious continental competition, with a standout performance from midfielder Stephane Aziz Ki, who completed the scoring and sealed a commanding victory.
The match, played in Tanzania due to the lack of an international-standard stadium in Burundi, saw Young Africans take control from the outset. Zimbabwean striker Prince Dube opened the scoring with a goal in the first half, providing a crucial lead. The momentum continued with Zambian midfielder Clatous Chama and Tanzanian forward Clement Mzize each adding their names to the scoresheet. Aziz Ki, born in Ivory Coast but representing Burkina Faso internationally, capped the rout with a goal in the 85th minute, ensuring a resounding 4-0 triumph.
The clash marked Vital’O’s return to the premier African club competition after a six-year absence, and the unfavorable conditions of having to play away in Tanzania seemed to hinder their performance. Despite their best efforts, the Burundian side was unable to match the intensity and skill of their Tanzanian opponents.
Young Africans have been a formidable force in African club football in recent years. They finished as runners-up in the 2023 CAF Confederation Cup and were narrowly eliminated in the quarter-finals of the CAF Champions League last season. Their pursuit of continental glory has been a focal point, with their performance in this qualifier further demonstrating their ambition and capability.
Stephane Aziz Ki has been a crucial player for Young Africans, attracting attention from clubs in South Africa and Morocco due to his impressive performances. However, Argentina-born Miguel Gamondi, the current coach of Young Africans, emphasized the importance of retaining key players like Ki. Gamondi’s commitment to maintaining a strong squad is clear, as he seeks to build on the club’s recent successes and challenge for top honors in Africa.
In the broader context of the CAF Champions League qualifiers, Young Africans’ impressive display sets a high bar for their potential second-round opponents. Assuming they advance past the return leg next Saturday, they will face either Villa of Uganda or Commercial Bank of Ethiopia. The Ethiopians made headlines by upsetting Villa 2-1 in Kampala, with the Ugandans finishing the match a man short after a red card.
In other matches, Moroccan giants Raja Casablanca continued their strong domestic form on the continental stage. The three-time Champions League title holders secured a 2-1 away victory over AS GNN of Niger in Niamey. Despite having their early lead equalized, Raja secured the win through a decisive goal from Marouane Zila in the 66th minute. Raja’s recent success, including winning the 2024 Moroccan league and cup double under German coach Josef Zinnbauer, underscores their continued prominence in African football.
Meanwhile, Stade Abidjan of the Ivory Coast, making their first appearance in the competition since 1970, salvaged a 1-1 draw at home against Teungeuth of Senegal with a late equalizer. Their return to the continental stage has been marked by a resilient performance, showcasing their determination to make an impact after a long absence.
As the CAF Champions League qualifiers progress, the early matches have set the stage for what promises to be an exciting and competitive tournament. With clubs like Young Africans, Raja Casablanca, and Stade Abidjan making significant strides, the quest for continental supremacy is well underway.
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