"The one they sent failed the mission!" That is one way to describe Yanga's emphatic 3-0 victory over Azam FC in an NBC Premier League clash played at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar.
It was a match in which Yanga's players understood from the opening whistle that victory was essential if they were to strengthen their chances of defending the league title.
After creating several opportunities in the first half, Ibrahim Bacca broke the deadlock in the 41st minute, heading home a cross from Prince Dube.
Yanga, who dominated much of the contest, went into the halftime break with a deserved 1-0 lead.
Azam FC came out stronger in the second half searching for an equalizer, but they struggled to contain Laurindo Aurelio "Depu". In the 73rd minute, Depu doubled Yanga's advantage from the penalty spot after winning the penalty himself.
The final blow came in the 81st minute when Pacome Zouzoua reacted quickest to a rebound after goalkeeper Zuberi Foba spilled a shot from Prince Dube, making it 3-0 for the defending champions.
It was a vital victory for Yanga as they head into the final two matches of the season. The "Wananchi" now require just four more points to successfully defend their Premier League crown.
At a time when many believed the pressure would prove too much, Yanga once again demonstrated why they remain the benchmark of Tanzanian football and why they deserve their position at the top of the table.
