Former Mamelodi Sundowns Coach Expects More From His Side

Manqoba Mngqithi has warned his Young Africans SC players that their failure to convert scoring opportunities could eventually cost them dearly, despite an impressive 4-0 victory over Madagascar’s CFFA in the CAF Champions League.

The South African tactician was speaking after his side bounced back from a disappointing 2-1 defeat against arch-rivals Simba SC in the famous Kariakoo Derby. Yanga responded emphatically, putting themselves in a commanding position ahead of the second leg of their continental tie.

However, Mngqithi was far from completely satisfied with his team’s performance. Despite scoring four goals, he was concerned about the number of opportunities his players wasted, particularly in the first half, when they managed just one goal despite creating several chances.

“Strangely I am not as excited with the four goals,” Mngqithi explained, while praising his players for responding positively after the half-time team talk.

He added that his biggest concern was their poor conversion rate, warning that the missed chances could haunt them in more demanding matches.

His comments reflect the high standards he is attempting to establish at the Tanzanian giants. While the scoreline demonstrated Yanga’s attacking potential, Mngqithi understands that stronger opposition in the later stages of the CAF Champions League may punish such wastefulness.

Mngqithi’s demanding approach comes during an encouraging start to life in Tanzania. Since taking charge of the defending champions, he has won the Community Shield and earned recognition as the Tanzanian Premier League’s Coach of the Month for August after guiding Yanga to five consecutive league victories.

Although the derby defeat to Simba ended his team’s perfect league start, the response against CFFA demonstrated their ability to recover from setbacks. Yanga had also shown progress in breaking down opponents who defend deep, an area Mngqithi believes has improved under his guidance.

The former Mamelodi Sundowns and Golden Arrows coach is now tasked with maintaining domestic success while making Yanga serious contenders in Africa. His experience at Sundowns, including their 2016 CAF Champions League triumph, gives him valuable continental knowledge.

For Mngqithi, however, the 4-0 victory is only part of the bigger picture. He wants his players to combine attacking creativity with ruthless finishing as the club pursues its ambitions in Tanzania and beyond.

At Yanga, the message is clear: winning is important, but improvement remains non-negotiable.

Mngqithi Unimpressed Despite Thrashing CAFCL Win

LindokuhleWrites feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com