Yanga head coach Manqoba Mngqithi has disputed the red card shown to his attacking midfielder, Stephane Aziz Ki, while the club’s management has officially announced its intention to appeal the decision to the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF).
Aziz Ki was shown a straight red card in the 18th minute of the NBC Premier League match against Geita Gold FC. The referee reached the decision after reviewing the incident using the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system and upgrading the yellow card he had initially shown the player.
Despite playing with 10 men for 72 minutes, Yanga managed to secure a 1-0 victory, with defender Oumar Komara scoring the decisive goal.
Speaking shortly after the match, Mngqithi expressed his dissatisfaction with the decision, describing it as overly harsh.
He explained that Aziz Ki had no malicious intent or intention to injure Geita Gold player Datius Peter, but was simply attempting to compete for the ball.
"I do not agree with that decision. Aziz Ki was trying to play the ball and had no intention of hurting anyone," Mngqithi said.
Yanga’s management is expected to submit its complaint to TFF, seeking to have the red card overturned or the resulting suspension reduced.
According to the league regulations, a straight red card means a player is suspended for the following two matches.
Aziz Ki is therefore at risk of missing the major Kariakoo Derby against Simba SC, scheduled for October 10 at Uhuru Stadium.
