Yanga head coach Manqoba Mngqithi has expressed strong confidence in the quality of his squad, saying the team has the potential to achieve even greater success in the CAF Champions League, including reaching the final.
Yanga have set a minimum target of reaching the CAF Champions League quarterfinals after making the group stage for three consecutive seasons. However, Mngqithi believes those ambitions can be even greater given the quality and depth of the squad at his disposal this season.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns coach said the biggest difference from last season is the improvement Yanga have made in terms of squad depth.
He explained that last season Yanga had a very strong first-choice team but lacked enough quality players who could make a significant contribution when called upon.
“What I discovered about Yanga last season was that they did not have enough depth. They had a very good first-choice team, but beyond that, there were only three or four players who could genuinely help the team.”
Mngqithi said that situation has changed this season after Yanga strengthened both the quality and depth of their squad, which he considers crucial to the team’s journey in Africa’s biggest club competition.
“This season we have strengthened to ensure we have 24 to 26 quality players. When Clement and Job return, we will have 28 players capable of competing.”
Recalls Yanga’s Battle with Sundowns
Mngqithi also reflected on his time on the Mamelodi Sundowns technical bench, when the South African side eliminated Yanga in the CAF Champions League quarterfinals.
The coach said Yanga came very close to qualifying and that certain moments in the match could have completely changed the outcome of the tie.
“I remember I was still at Sundowns when we eliminated Yanga in the CAF Champions League quarterfinals. But the truth is, they came very close. Even the goal they scored was somewhat controversial because it could have taken them into the semifinals.”
The remarks demonstrate Mngqithi’s recognition of Yanga’s ability in international competitions, while his extensive experience in African football gives him a clear understanding of what is required for a team to go deep into the competition.
Yanga Targeting a Deeper Run
As Yanga prepare for their preliminary-round second leg against Gaborone United, Mngqithi is optimistic that his squad can continue that journey and eventually compete against Africa’s football giants.
Mngqithi’s experience in the CAF Champions League, including winning th
