Harambee Stars midfielder Duke Abuya’s dream of advancing to the quarterfinals of the CAF Champions League was cut short after his team, Yanga SC, was eliminated in the group stages. A goalless draw against MC Alger in a crucial Group A encounter at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar-es-Salaam sealed their fate, leaving the Tanzanian champions unable to progress.
The match was a must-win for Yanga, but despite dominating possession and enjoying the support of a passionate home crowd, they struggled to break through MC Alger’s disciplined defense. Yanga head coach Sead Ramovic made tactical adjustments in the second half, bringing on Pacome Zouzoua and Clatous Chama for Kennedy Musonda and Mudathir Yahya. However, the changes failed to unlock the Algerian side’s resolute backline.
MC Alger executed their game plan effectively, combining defensive solidity with strategic time management to frustrate the home team. Their approach paid off, as the point earned from the draw secured their place in the quarterfinals alongside Sudanese giants Al Hilal. Yanga finished third in the group with eight points, while TP Mazembe from DR Congo ended at the bottom despite a commanding 4-0 win over Al Hilal in their final group match.
Duke Abuya, who joined Yanga SC in July from Singida Black Stars, did not feature in the match, remaining an unused substitute. The midfielder had been instrumental during the preliminary rounds and earlier group-stage matches, but his contributions were not enough to carry the team into the knockout stages.
The completion of the group stage confirmed the quarterfinal lineup for the CAF Champions League, which includes Orlando Pirates (South Africa), FAR Rabat (Morocco), Esperance (Tunisia), Al Ahly, and Pyramids FC (both from Egypt). With Yanga’s elimination, Simba SC remains Tanzania’s sole representative in continental competitions, having advanced to the quarterfinals of the CAF Confederation Cup.
Yanga’s focus will now shift to domestic competitions as they aim to defend their league title and secure a fourth consecutive championship. Abuya will be eager to play a pivotal role in their domestic campaign, helping the team maintain its dominance in Tanzanian football. Despite the disappointment of their continental exit, Yanga remains a formidable force on the local scene.
The Tanzanian champions’ struggles in the Champions League highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in their attacking creativity and ability to convert possession into goals. The experience gained from competing at this level will undoubtedly be valuable as the team looks to regroup and prepare for future continental campaigns.
Abuya’s journey in the CAF Champions League may have ended earlier than hoped, but the midfielder has shown promise and resilience throughout his career. He will likely draw inspiration from this experience to grow and prepare for future opportunities to shine on the African stage. For now, his immediate focus will be on contributing to Yanga’s domestic success and continuing to develop as a key player for both his club and the national team.
