Young Africans SC of Tanzania have stormed into the group stage of the 2024/25 CAF Champions League following a commanding 6-0 victory over Commercial Bank of Ethiopia FC (CBE) in the second-leg of their preliminary round clash. The resounding win, played at Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar, ensured the Tanzanian champions advanced with a comprehensive 7-0 aggregate score.
Zambian international Clatous Chota Chama opened the scoring for Young Africans, netting the first goal in the 38th minute.
His strike set the tone for what would become a one-sided affair, as the Tanzanian club relentlessly piled pressure on their Ethiopian opponents.
Just moments after the second half kicked off, Clement Mzize added to Young Africans’ lead, capitalising on a defensive lapse.
Mzize rounded the CBE goalkeeper before calmly slotting the ball into an empty net, doubling the scoreline and putting the home side in complete control of the tie.
The floodgates opened shortly thereafter, with Young Africans showing their attacking prowess.
Burkinabe midfielder Stephane Aziz Ki added two goals to the tally, further demoralising CBE’s defense.
His clinical finishing and dynamic playmaking were a highlight of the match, as he tormented the Ethiopian backline throughout.
Mudathir Yahya and substitute Duke Ooga Abuya also found the back of the net, contributing to the Tanzanian club’s overwhelming six-goal triumph on the night. Yahya’s strike came from a well-worked team move, while Abuya, introduced later in the game, made an immediate impact by scoring to seal the victory.
As the final whistle blew, the atmosphere at the Amaan Stadium was one of jubilation. Young Africans, known locally as “Yanga,” celebrated their emphatic qualification for the CAF Champions League group stage. This marks the second consecutive season that the Tanzanian giants have reached this phase of the competition, further cementing their status as one of East Africa’s most formidable clubs.
Assistant coach Cedric Kaze praised the team’s performance after the match, noting the focus and determination his players displayed throughout the 90 minutes.
“It was a complete performance from the team. We executed our game plan perfectly, and I’m proud of the way we approached both legs of this tie,” Kaze said.
With their place in the group stage secured, Young Africans will now turn their attention to their domestic league and upcoming continental challenges.
The reigning Tanzanian Premier League champions are eager to improve on their previous Champions League campaign and make a deep run in this year’s tournament.
Young Africans’ victory over CBE not only showcases their growing strength on the continental stage but also underscores the club’s ambition to compete among Africa’s elite.
The Tanzanian outfit will now await the group stage draw, where they will aim to continue their fine form in pursuit of CAF Champions League glory.