Yanga star Stephane Aziz Ki will miss the squad’s clash with Simba in the Kariakoo Derby on October 10, but he says he has no doubts about his team’s ability to perform well in his absence.
Aziz Ki was shown a red card during the match against Geita Gold following an incident involving the team’s player, Datius Peter, resulting in a two-match suspension.
The midfielder will therefore miss the Kariakoo Derby against Simba, which will be the first of the two matches he is suspended for. He will also miss Yanga’s following match against TRA United.
Yanga had earlier lodged a complaint with the Tanzania Premier League Board (TPLB), asking for the card to be overturned on the grounds that Aziz Ki did not intend to injure Datius Peter.
However, after the 72-Hour Committee issued its decision, nothing changed, meaning the player will now have to serve the two-match suspension.
Aziz Ki, who has been one of Yanga’s key players in recent seasons, said the team does not depend on one individual and that whoever is given an opportunity has the ability to perform well for the club.
“I believe in our squad. Yanga have many good players and everyone has the ability to help the team. I will not be there, but I believe my teammates will do a good job,” said Aziz Ki.
The midfielder said what hurts him most is missing such an important match for supporters of both teams, but despite being absent from the pitch, he will continue supporting his teammates.
“I will be with them in spirit. I wish I could be on the pitch to help the team, but since I will not be there, I will support them and believe they will do well,” he said.
