For the first time since the start of this NBC Premier League season, Yanga SC will take to the field without their star midfielder Stephane Aziz Ki, who has joined Moroccan football giants Wydad Athletic.
Today’s match against Tanzania Prisons will be played at the Sokoine Stadium in Mbeya, with all eyes on one man—Clatous Chama.
As Yanga chases crucial away points, Aziz Ki will be representing Wydad Athletic against Manchester City in the Club World Cup in the United States.
It’s a new chapter for the Ivorian star, but also a turning point for Yanga, who must now adapt to life without the player who was the heartbeat of their midfield.
Yanga Head Coach Miloud Hamdi will be forced to adjust his tactical setup for the first time, with the void left by Aziz Ki needing to be filled.
Within the Yanga squad, the leading candidate to take on that role is Clatous Chama, an experienced attacking midfielder known for his high-level performances.
During the team’s final training session before the match, Chama was seen performing all the duties that Aziz Ki typically handled—an indication that Coach Hamdi has faith in him.
This could be Chama’s moment to fully prove his quality as a central figure. Having often come off the bench for Aziz Ki, he now has the opportunity to start, lead the attack, and serve as the crucial link between midfield and the front line.