Manqoba Mngqithi recalls Sundowns’ narrow Champions League escape against Yanga

Yanga SC coach Manqoba Mngqithi has reflected on his previous encounter with the Tanzanian side, recalling how close they came to reaching the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League.

Mngqithi was part of the Mamelodi Sundowns technical team when the South African club eliminated Yanga in the Champions League quarter-finals.

The Tanzanian side pushed Sundowns all the way in a tightly contested tie, and Mngqithi admits the outcome could easily have been different.

“I remember I was still at Sundowns when we eliminated Yanga from the Champions League quarter-finals. But the truth is, they were very close,” Mngqithi said.

“Even the goal they scored was somewhat confusing because it could have taken them to the semi-finals.”

The experience appears to have shaped Mngqithi’s assessment of Yanga, particularly when it comes to squad depth.

According to the coach, Yanga had a strong starting XI last season but lacked sufficient quality among their substitutes, leaving the team vulnerable when injuries, suspensions or fatigue affected the first-choice players.

“Last season, what I discovered about Yanga was that they didn’t have a strong squad,” he said.

“They had a very good first team, but beyond that, only three or four players could really help the team.”

Mngqithi believes that weakness has now been addressed, with Yanga strengthening their squad ahead of the new campaign.

The coach says the club has focused on building greater competition for places, with the aim of having a large group of players capable of maintaining the team’s level when called upon.

“This season, we have improved to make sure we have 24 to 26 quality players,” Mngqithi added.

“With Clement and Job still to return, we have 28 players with the ability to compete.”

The comments underline Mngqithi’s belief that squad depth could be crucial as Yanga balance domestic competition with their ambitions in Africa.

Having previously experienced just how narrowly Yanga came to eliminating Sundowns, the coach appears determined to ensure his current side are better equipped to cope with the demands of a long season.

For Mngqithi, the objective is not simply to have a strong starting line-up but to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level regardless of who is available.

That depth could prove particularly important in the Champions League, where Yanga will again be expected to challenge for a place in the latter stages after their previous near-miss against Sundowns.