Mngqithi’s Bold Promise To Yanga Fans Sets Up Spicy Derby Clash
Newly appointed Young Africans coach Manqoba Mngqithi has pledged to build a fearless, disciplined and ambitious team capable of earning respect across Africa as he begins a new chapter with the Tanzanian giants.
The 55-year-old was officially unveiled as Yanga’s new head coach last Friday after leaving Golden Arrows at the end of the 2025/26 season, having guided Abafana Bes’thende back into the Betway Premiership’s top eight.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns coach replaces Argentine Miguel Ángel Gamondi, who departed despite delivering domestic success, with the club now determined to establish itself as a genuine force on the African continent.
In his first message to supporters following his appointment, Mngqithi made it clear that his ambitions extend beyond maintaining Yanga’s dominance in Tanzania, insisting he wants to take the club to even greater heights.
“I begin a new chapter with immense gratitude and great responsibility,” Mngqithi wrote on Instagram.
“It is a true honour to be entrusted with leading Young Africans SC, a club built on a rich history, passionate supporters and a winning culture. I sincerely thank the club’s leadership, players, staff and every member of the Yanga family for believing in me.
“I arrive with deep respect for what this great club has already achieved, but I also come with a clear vision: to take Young Africans SC to an even greater level. I understand the expectations that come with this badge, and I embrace them wholeheartedly.
“I know what it takes to build a team that competes with courage, discipline and relentless ambition. Together, we will create a side that every opponent in Africa respects and fears. We will play with passion, fight for every ball and never settle for anything less than excellence.
“Success is never achieved by one person. It is built through unity, hard work, sacrifice and an unbreakable belief in one another. I ask every Yanga SC supporter to stand with us as we begin this exciting journey. Let’s make history together.”
Mngqithi’s arrival also sets up a fascinating South African coaching rivalry in the Tanzanian Premier League. He will go head-to-head with fellow South African Steve Barker, who recently took charge of Simba SC, as the country’s two biggest clubs battle for league honours and continental success.
The rivalry carries added intrigue, with Mngqithi also set to face two of his former Mamelodi Sundowns players, Neo Maema and Rushine De Reuck, who now ply their trade under Barker at Simba.
The last meeting between Mngqithi and Barker came in the Betway Premiership in October 2025, when Barker’s Stellenbosch defeated Golden Arrows 4-3 in an entertaining encounter in Cape Town.
