With Mamelodi Sundowns set to face Yanga SC in the quarterfinals of the CAF Champions League, a top official has insisted that the Tanzanian side could stage a huge upset when they meet the South African giants.
The draw for the Champions League last eight was confirmed earlier this week, with Tanzania being the most represented nation with two teams remaining.
One of the sides, Simba SC, have been drawn against reigning champions Al Ahly, whilst Yanga have an appointment with the holders of the African Football League, Sundowns. The first leg will be played in Tanzania on 29 March, with the return leg taking place in South Africa on 5 April.
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The Brazilians are widely considered the favourites to win the clash, as they also have their sights on qualification for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
However, Tanzania's director of sport development Ally Mayay insists that the events that took place at the 2023 AFCON could be repeated in the CAFCL.
"Yanga and Simba can use the Africa Cup of Nations spirit that saw football giants in the continent being edged out and the best loser winning the title," said Mayay, according to the Tanzanian Citizen.
"It is an open fact that Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly are the most feared teams in the competition, but in football, you may turn tables.
"Who believed that the Ivory Coast who were placed third in AFCON could win the title, leaving out Morocco, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal, Nigeria, and Cameroon who are believed to be African football powerhouses?"
Meanwhile, the Yanga president Hersi Saidi noted that the match is a huge occasion in the country and preparations for the fixture are already underway.
"We are ready to face Mamelodi Sundowns in the competition. It will not be an easy match as we know how strong their team are. Our players and technical bench staff have started focusing on the match, so it will be one of the historic games to happen in the country," said Yanga president Hersi Saidi.
Yanga head coach Miguel Gamondi added: "One you qualify for this stage, don't expect to face easy opponents. So, Mamelodi Sundowns are the type of opponents with whom we have no choice but to meet.
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