DAR ES SALAAM: YOUNG Africans Head Coach Pedro Goncalves praised his side for securing progression to the CRDB Federation Cup Round of 32 but insisted his players must raise their standards and avoid complacency, despite Wednesday’s 2–0 win over Cosmopolitan FC.
The reigning champions advanced to the next round at the KMC Complex thanks to a clinical brace from new signing Buba Jammeh, who struck twice in the first half.
“Our objective was to qualify and we have done that, so we are satisfied with the outcome,” the Portuguese coach said.
Jammeh opened the scoring in the 12th minute, finishing confidently after being set up by Mudathir Yahya, who then doubled the advantage himself 10 minutes later.
However, despite establishing a two-goal lead before the interval, Yanga failed to add to their tally in the second half, a display that left the coach far from impressed.
ALSO READ: Gonçalves proud of Yanga despite exit… Azam to return stronger next season, vows Ibenge
“But I was not happy with our second-half performance. At this club, high standards are demanded at all times. We cannot relax simply because we are in control.
“We must be more demanding of ourselves. It is not enough to manage the game; we must press for the full 90 minutes. If we want success this season, we need to be more aggressive and with consistency,” he said.
Goncalves acknowledged that changes to the starting lineup may have affected rhythm and understanding, but stressed that squad rotation cannot become an excuse.
For Cosmopolitan, Head Coach Selemani Kitunda remained upbeat despite elimination, describing the encounter as valuable preparation for their promotion campaign.