[Tanzania]Simba face tricky Fed Cup tie

SIMBA have been handed a fascinating Azam Sports Federation Cup round of 16 tie with African Lyon while holders Young Africans were drawn against minnows Kiluvya United.

The draw for the round of 16 of the ASFC, scheduled to kick on February 24, produced some exciting allpremier league fixtures. Last season’s runners-up Azam will host Mtibwa Sugar at Azam Complex in a thrilling all-premier league affair with Kagera Sugar taking on Stand United at Kaitaba Stadium in Bukoba.

Two more matches will be played on the day whereby Ndanda FC will visit the Mighty Elephant at the Majimaji Stadium in Ruvuma whilst Arusha’s Madini FC will be up against JKT Ruvu at Sheikh Amri Abeid Stadium in Arusha, while Mbeya dwellers will be treated to a mouthwatering derby on February 26 with Mbeya City taking on the city’s rivals Prisons.

Mwanza residents should also brace for a thrilling derby between Mbao FC and Toto Africans at CCM Kirumba on the same date. Giants Simba, who are desperate to return to international football, are scheduled to play African Lyon on March 1 at the National Stadium. Having crashed out at the quarterfinal stage last season, Simba will certainly go all out seeking to win the competition, whose winner represents the country in the CAF Confederation Cup.

But they will be aware of the kind of opposition they will be up against having already faced this Lyon twice in the league this season. Lyon inflicted Simba’s first defeat of the season, winning 1-0 but the Reds won the reverse fixture.

Joseph Omog charges sailed into the last 16 of the Azam Sports Federation Cup with a routine 2-0 win over Polisi courtesy of Pastory Athanas and Mohamed Hussein’s strikes. In the last of the eighth ties, defending champions Yanga will be expected to make an easy work of Kiluvya United when the Premier League leaders face the Dar es Salaam minnows on March 7 at the National Stadium.

George Lwandamina’s Yanga side kicked off their ASFC title defence campaign with a 4-1 rout of First Division League (FDL) side Ashanti United 4-1. Yanga clinched the previous year title after thrashing Azam FC 3-1 in the final game at the National Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

Despite losing the final, Azam secured the ticket to represent Mainland Tanzania in CAF Confederation Cup as Yanga also emerged Premier League champions. With Premier League title race a tight two-horse race between Simba and Yanga, ASFC remain the only hope for a ticket to bear the country’s flag at international competitions for the rest of the chasing pack.

Top flight elites of Azam FC, Mtibwa Sugar will be expected to mount a serious challenge for the Federation Cup glory against the two big wigs of domestic football.

But as Coastal Union proved last time out after making it to the semis despite their destitute league position, one should not bet against the likes of Kagera Sugar, Mbeya City, Mbao FC, Prisons and Toto African posting an upset along the way.

source:dailynews.co.tz

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[Tanzania] Battle of wits for Simba, Yanga

THERE will be no room for a draw when the big Dar es Salaam derby presents at Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar tonight.

The huge crowd heading to Zanzibar claimed their mission was to witness the death of one of the two giants; Simba or Young Africans, one of them must die. Most of the supporters of the both teams claimed they were going to Zanzibar to celebrate the victory but the sad demise of one of the giants.

Time will tell who fall tonight between the two giants, each owning almost a half of Tanzanian population. One of the Tanzania’s two biggest football clubs, Simba and Young Africans, will have to fall in the semi final stage of this year’s Mapinduzi Cup to decide which team plays in the event’s last two stage.

It has to be as there is no room for exhibition football – which the two giants are known for – and a draw is out of the question in this cup competition as there must be a winner to advance to the next round.

Although fans continue to be duped by marketing trickery to get them to fill the stadium, everyone now knows that whenever there is a derby, the score line has not been easy to predict. In most cases it has been quite opposite. It has been found most often the best Yanga losing to tactically weak Simba and vice versa.

But all that is out of the question in this match, and fans can brace themselves for a thriller as both teams will seek to win it inside the 90 as opposed to leaving it to the lottery of penalties.

Yanga who suffered a humiliating 4-0 loss to Azam in their last group B match can not be underestimated in the game as opposed to Simba who com- TUESDAY, JANUARY 10, 2017 0.0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 URA Simba Yanga KCC Azam Mtibwa Miembeni Malindi Mafunzo KMKM Polisi Z’bar Jamhuri 2016 2011, 2015 2004 2014 2012, 2013 2010 2008 2007 2005 2002 2001 1998 Graph showing Mapinduzi Cup Champions from 1998-2016 pleted the Group Stage assignment unbeaten after posting 3 wins and a draw, while Yanga who finished second behind Group B leaders, Azam, notched six points from a two-match victory and a loss. Prior to their disastrous encounter with Azam, Yanga enjoyed a +8 Goal difference, but the GD went down to +4 after their heavy loss. Psychologically, Simba fans have high hopes of their team’s victory in tonight clash.

Most of the team’s supporters said their claims are backed by the history and the team’s current performance in both the Premier League and the Mapinduzi Cup. With the exception of Cecafa Club Championship final of 1975 which Yanga beat Simba 2-0 to win their maiden region title, Amaan Stadium has been too friendly to Simba. But Yanga supporters, who looked too confident despite their team’s loss to Azam, said they were heading to Zanzibar to witness the death of the ‘beast’ and their loss doesn’t give their opponents a guarantee to win the derby.

“Just wait and watch, you will see how the beast falls in Zanzibar tomorrow,” said one of the supporters. But Simba SC skipper, Jonas Mkude admitted to the reporters yesterday that the match would be tough as both sides were seriously preparing the players for the big match.

Mkude said his players were physically and psychologically fit for the encounter, but insisted that the truth will be found after the end of the 90 minutes

Burundian import Laudit Mavugo scored a brace to give Simba a convincing 2-0 win over Jang’ombe Boys in the early match Before the Dar giants clash, Azam FC will open the semis stage against the hosts Taifa Jang’ombe, the match will be staged at Amaan around 4:00 pm.

Taifa Jang’ombe sealed a semi final spot after beating Uganda URA 1-0 in a thrilling Group A match at the same venue.

source: www.dailynews.co.tz

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[Tanzania] CJ sees TPDF Lugalo win Waitara Golf title

CHIEF Justice (CJ) Mohammed Chande Othman has appealed to fellow judges to start learning golf after he was impressed with the game in the just ended Waitara Golf Trophy.

He said after he himself joined the golf fraternity weeks back, he said he will serve as golf ambassador to convince other judges to learn the sport after finding it was good for the body’s health and networking.

Chande who has recently started practising the game, made the remark while handing over trophies to winners of this year Waitara Trophy tournament at the Tanzania People’s Defence Forces (TPDF) Lugalo golf club in Dar es Salaam over the weekend.

To ensure that nothing delayed his decision, Lugalo awarded him golf kits so that he can start soon than later. Othman who was chief guest at the 18-hole stroke play nett annual event handing over overall trophy to host Juma Likuli who beat other 117 challengers from different clubs. Playing off handicap-5 Likuli carded six-under par 66 nett to win the title.

Othman said golf is very interesting game that one can blame only him or herself for poor results as you play without referee. He also appealed to sponsors to come forward and assist professional golfers so that they can raise high Tanzania flag internationally. Lugalo Golf club founder General (retired) George Waitara said that Lugalo is ideal place for the judges and other top officials to learn and play golf.

“One of the main aims of constructing a golf course here was to give chances to government officials to participate in sports for both health leisure benefits,” he said. Waitara invited judges and other officials to come forward and join him and others at the newly constructed course.

The tournament also saw handicap-7 Claude Mtavangu win Division A top prize with 67 nett as Hendrick Nyenza handicap- 3 come second with 68 nett. In Division B top prize went to Iddi Ramadhani with 67 nett, while Noel Mheni finished second with 69 nett. Adam Ngamilo claimed the Division C after netting 74 strokes and Alfred Kinswaga penned 75 strokes.

Senior top prize went to Said Nkya who returned 73 strokes ahead of Boniface Nyiti who finished second with 74 strokes.

The ladies top prize went to Sophia Mathias who carded 74 nett and Vicky Elias was second with 76 nett. Arusha Gymkhana’s Nuru Mollel continued to dominate Lugalo event in professional golf title with one under par gross 71 strokes.

source-www.dailynews.co.tz

 

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[Tanzania] Tanzania, SA step up war on piracy

TANZANIA and South Africa governments have agreed to work together in developing arts and culture sector, in an effort to ensure historical friendship between the two countries is maintained.

Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Nape Nnauye, said yesterday in Dar es Salaam that Tanzania and South Africa have signed an agreement in favour of creating law, aimed at minimising or controlling theft of artistic works from both countries. He said the agreement on creativity rights aims at protecting the original artistic works of the two nations over piracy.

Nnauye made these remarks shortly after meeting with South African Minister of Culture and Arts, Nkosinathi Mthethwa, who is in the country for five days official tour.

The South African minister is in the country to establish how best they can implement the cooperation agreement they entered in 2011, especially on issues related to arts and culture.

Minister Nnauye said that South Africa has already established regulations of intellectual property rights for their country’s artistic works, which has enabled them to overcome challenges which Tanzanian artistes were currently facing.

He further said the agreement signed in 2011 between the two countries has enabled artistes from Tanzania to travel to South Africa without any inconvenience due to the good relations that exist between the countries.

Minister Mthethwa with his delegation of seven officials toured the Mazimbu and Dakawa grave yards were some of the ANC freedom fighters were buried. The freedom fighters, who were on political asylum, camped in Mazimbu and Dakawa after running from the apartheid regime.

source-www.dailynews.co.tz

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[Tanzania] Warriors loss piles up Stars misery

TANZANIA is expected to plunge further deep down in the FIFA World rankings following Taifa Stars’ humiliating 3-0 loss to Zimbabwe Warriors on Sunday.

Now ranked lowly 144th, after dropping down 12 places last month, Taifa Stars are likely to drop further in next ranking, a situation that could hurt the value of the local talents in the global market.

Fifa normally announces the new rankings on 24th day of every month. Inferior ranking has been the biggest hurdle for local players seeking to play in the big European leagues and other popular leagues.

Speaking after the game, Taifa Stars coach, Charles Mkwasa, admitted that his charges were outwitted by the Warriors, adding the hosts were better organized in a team work basis. Mkwasa attributed his side’s massive loss to inadequate preparations and fatigue.

“Our team was a little bit weak because of the preparation we had,” Mkwasa said. Taifa Stars players were assembled just a few days after the end of the Premier League’s first round and lack of team work was so apparent in their match against Zimbabwe.

But despite losing heavily there were moments when Stars players looked tactically better than their opponents who relied most on better organisation and superior teamwork. Commenting on Zimbabwe’s chances at the coming African Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals, Mkwasa said the Warriors must raise their game since they will be up against continental big-wigs.

“The Warriors still needed to work harder if they are to make an impression at Afcon.” He said they look as underdogs in the Group that consists of Algeria, Senegal and Tunisia. “Zimbabwe have been together for some time and they capitalised on our mistakes. We learnt something from Zimbabwe. But they have to work hard. Our team was very weak and they will meet stronger teams at Afcon,” he warned.

“They made full use of the mistake we made and they won the game. They are very good team, very experienced players, I salute them.” Mkwasa, who replaced Dutchman Mart Nooij in June, suggested that Zimbabwe could come to Tanzania for another friendly before they jet off for Gabon.

Poor teamwork and lack of creativity cost Taifa Stars dearly in their 3-0 ugly loss to hosts Zimbabwe at the National Sports Stadium in Harare on Sunday. Zimbabwe scored all three goals, one in the first half and two others shortly after resumption, due to defensive blunders and disorganisation. Much of what evidenced from Stars came from individual skills.

Mbwana Samatta who was a constant menace to the Zimbabweans, lacked support as there was no serious game plan against well-drilled Zimbabwean players, the majority of them playing professional soccer in the big African European leagues.

The home side had to withstand some early pressure in the opening stages and they might have been behind had it not been for the brilliance of Tatenda Mukuruva, who reacted well to keep out Belgian based Mbwana Samata pointblank shot from inside the box.

Taifa Stars appeared to be coping well with some growing Zimbabwe pressure, but they suffered at the hands of Knowledge Musona who scored the opening goal of the match from a headed assist by Nyasha Mushekwi.

The goal seemed to inspire Zimbabwe into action and they came out of the traps quickest in the second period, Mushekwi almost earning himself a goal with a fine strike, only to be denied by the dive of goalkeeper Aishi Manula down low.

The all-important second goal arrived in the 54th minute and it was no more than the hosts deserved, as Mathew Rusike reacted quickest to a lost ball in an exciting one-two exchange of passing before producing a standout bullet shot from outside the box beyond the reach of Manula.

The Zimbabwean Warriors were able to add some icing to the cake, as Nyasha Mushekwi added a late effort this time with Musona providing the assist with a delightful cross.

In retrospect, the Zimbabwean football governing body(FAZ) has thanked its Tanzanian counterpart TFF for accepting to play a friendly with Zimbabwe. In the statement sent to the President of Tanzania Football Federation(TFF) Jamal Malinzi, FAZ President, Andrew Kamanga thanked TFF for honouring the invitation and promised the Warriors to play against Taifa Stars on their way to Afcon finals.

“Once again let me thank you for the Friendly, I am sure this relationship will go on forever, in the following weeks I will arrange that my team comes thru as agreed to play yours on their way to Ivory Coast or Egypt whichever way is convenient, and thanks again for agreeing to play Zimbabwe at such short notice and seeing to it that your boys were here in time for the match,” “Such display of brotherhood existed even during the times of Legendary President Julius Nyerere who was the King in ensuring the independence of my country.

God bless you abundantly.”

source- www.dailynews.co.tz

 

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[Tanzania] Poor teamwork hurts Stars

POOR teamwork and lack of creativity cost Taifa Stars dearly in their 3-0 ugly loss to hosts Zimbabwe at the National Sports Stadium in Harare yesterday.

Taifa Stars, who were invited to play hosts in friendly that served as a build up match ahead of AFCON Finals early next year, lacked quality team basis, a weakness that helped the hosts stamp a west victory.

Zimbabwe scored all three goals, one in the first half and two others shortly after resumption, due to defensive blunders and disorganisation. Much of what evidenced from Stars came from individual skills.

Mbwana Samatta who was a constant menace to the Zimbabweans, lacked support as there was no serious game plan against well-drilled Zimbabwean players, the majority of them playing professional soccer in the big African European leagues.

Zimbabwe, who have qualified for 2017 Afcon finals continued with their impressive run for Gabon preparations with what looked as relative victory.

The home side had to withstand some early pressure in the opening stages and they might have been behind had it not been for the brilliance of Tatenda Mukuruva, who reacted well to keep out Belgian based Mbwana Samata pointblank shot from inside the box.

Zimbabwe slowly grew into the contest and they almost found the vital opener courtesy of Kudakwashe Mahachi, but he could not find a way beyond the Tanzanian defence.

Taifa Stars appeared to be coping well with some growing Zimbabwe pressure, but they suffered at the hands of Knowledge Musona who scored the opening goal of the match from a headed assist by Nyasha Mushekwi.

The goal seemed to inspire Zimbabwe into action and they came out of the traps quickest in the second period, Mushekwi almost earning himself a goal with a fine strike, only to be denied by the dive of goalkeeper Aishi Manula down low.

The all-important second goal arrived in the 54rd minute and it was no more than the hosts deserved, as Mathew Rusike reacted quickest to a lost ball in an exciting one-two exchange of passing before producing a standout bullet shot from outside the box beyond the reach of Manula.

The Zimbabwean Warriors were able to add some icing to the cake, as Nyasha Mushekwi added a late effort this time with Musona providing the assist with a delightful cross.

Khama Billiat was introduced just after the hour mark for the impressive Rusike while Ndoro came in for the other scorer Mushekwi. Callisto Pasuwa made a number of changes as the match came into the final stages.

Tinotende Kadewere came in for Knowledge Musona. Mahachi came out for Cuthbert Malajila, Onismor Bhasera made way for Bruce Kangwa, Hardlife Zvirkewi was replaced by Oscar Machapa. Tendai Ndoro wasted two good opportunities to add to the Warriors tally and also had a goal ruled out for an infringement. The match ended 3-0 as Zimbabwe showed plenty of positives in preparation for AFCON 2017.

In the late minutes Taifa Stars dominated the game, and were close to score a consolation with the ball that looked to have crossed the goal line, but the referee waved on.

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Sitta helped Simba humiliate rivals Yanga 6-0, says Zitto

KIGOMA Urban Member of Parliament (MP), Zitto Kabwe (ACT-Wazalendo), said Simba SC record 6-0 victory against their arch rivals Young Africans in 1977 was greatly contributed by the fallen former Speaker of the Parliament, Samuel Sitta.

Zitto described Sitta’s death as a great loss to Simba, saying the Mainland giants has lost a loyal member and fanatic supporter. Until his death, Sitta was a member of the club’s Board of Trustees together with Ramesh Patel, Hassan Dalali and Adam Mgoi. Zitto, an ardent Simba fan, was among MPs who delivered a moving eulogy as the House gave the fallen speaker a befitting goodbye.

He said Sitta organised Simba’s tour of Brazil in 1972, where the team played several friendly matches. After which, Simba returned home as a fierce squad and they remained in top form which saw them snatch a record 6-0 win over Yanga in 1977 that still stands to date.

“One of the great successes he had contributed is the 6-0 record victory over archrivals Young Africans (Yanga) in 1977. It was all due to his contribution.

“The late Sitta had enormous contribution that will not be forgotten by Simba supporters ... this record victory against Yanga will live among the club members and fans for many years,” said Zitto, who described Sitta as ‘People’s Speaker’.

In the match played at the former National Stadium currently known as Uhuru Stadium, Simba’s goals were scored by Abdallah Kibadeni, who had a hat-trick in the 10, 42 and 89 minutes.

Other goals were netted by Jumanne Hassan alias ‘Masimenti’ who had a brace in the 60 and 73 minutes and the sixth goal was netted by Selemani Sanga in the 20 minute of the game.

Kabwe hailed the late former speaker and MP for Urambo constituency as a true Simba supporter, who took his time and efforts to make sure that the team prospers both at local and international stage.

Sitta, the former Speaker of the Ninth Parliament and Chairman of Constituent Assembly, died on the wee hours of Monday at the Technical University Hospital in Munich, Germany where he had been flown for medical treatment.

On Monday, Simba’s Head of Communication, Haji Manara said Sitta’s death was a big loss to the club, saying the former speaker was hugely involved in making the existing club’s constitution.

Former Simba Chairman, Ismael Aden Rage, also said the club has suffered a big loss because the late Sitta was always committed to helping the team he loved dearly.

“People should know that Sitta was a holder of card number six. There was a time even club jerseys were taken for washing at Sitta’s house,” revealed Rage.

On Thursday the National Assembly resolved to temporarily invoke House Standing Orders to allow the body of former Speaker Samuel Sitta into the debating chamber for last respects yesterday.

Known for his ‘Speed and Standard’ catchphrase, he will be mostly remembered for his five years of steering the ninth Parliament between 2005 and 2010 and his leadership when he chaired the Constituent Assembly that came up with the proposed draft constitution that awaits the referendum.

 

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Taifa Stars plot Zimbabwe downfall

THE national football team, Taifa Stars Head Coach Charles Boniface Mkwasa, has said his team had little time to prepare, but was adamant they will go for a win when they face host Zimbabwe in a friendly match in Harare tomorrow.

Stars left yesterday for Zimbabwe optimistic ahead of their international friendly encounter against ‘The Warriors’ to be played at the National Sports Stadium.

Mkwasa said few hours before the team’s departure yesterday afternoon that despite having only a single day to train together, his squad is ready for the clash.

Stars contingent left without Azam FC central defender, David Mwantika, who is injured. “With an exception of Mwantika (David), who is injured, all other selected players in the squad are in good shape ready for the match,” he said.

Mkwasa said that they are taking the game seriously and they are looking for positive results as it is crucial for the improvement of Stars in the next Fifa rankings, which will be released on November 24th, this year.

Taifa Stars dropped 12 positions to settle 144th in the previous released ranking, while Zimbabwe moved two places up to 110th. The Warriors have not been in action recently but have continued to progress on the latest rankings which is quite different to Taifa Stars.

The squad which left the country for Zimbabwe comprises goalkeepers: Deogratius Munishi, Said Kipao and Aishi Manula. Defenders are Erasto Nyoni, Michael Aidan, Mwinyi Haji, Mohamed Hussein, James Josephat and Vicent Andrew.

Midfielders: Himid Mao, Mohammed Ibrahim, Jonas Mkude, Muzamiru Yassin, Abdulrahman Mussa, Shiza Kichuya, Simon Msuva and Jamal Mnyate. Strikers are Ibrahim Ajib, John Bocco, Mbwana Samatta, Elius Maguli, Omar Mponda and Thomas Ulimwengu. Zimbabwe alias ‘The Warriors’ will utilise the game as part of its preparations for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in Gabon early next year.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe foreign based players jetted into the camp ahead of the friendly international tie against Taifa Stars. Only two players Khama Billiat and Bruce Kangwa were yet to join the camp by end of day yesterday as the Warriors’ preparations got underway.

The duo were expected to join the rest of the team later. Warriors head coach Callisto Pasuwa has opted to go for a blend of local and foreign based players for the clash against Tanzania, as he works to finalise his squad for AFCON 2017.

Squad: Goalkeepers: Donovan Bernard, Tatenda Mukuruva, Nelson Chadya, Defenders: Onismor Bhasera, Hardlife Zvirekwi, Bruce Kangwa, Lawrence Mhlanga, Teenage Hadebe, Tendai Ndlovu and Oscar Machapa.

Midfielders: Willard Katsande, Marvelous Nakamba, Marshall Mudehwe, Raphael Kutinyu, Danny Phiri, Kudakwashe Mahachi, Khama Billiat and strikers Knowledge Musona, Mathew Rusike, Tendai Ndoro, Cuthbert Malajila, Philana Kadewere and Nyasha Mushekwi.

 

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Yanga breathe at Simba’s neck

DEFENDING champions Young Africans moved within two points of the Premier League leaders Simba after beating Ruvu Shooting 2-1 in a pulsating contest yesterday.

Abdulrahman Mussa stunned the holders when he scored after seven minutes to put Ruvu Shooting ahead, but Simon Msuva drew the parity eight minutes before the break.

A stunning strike from Haruna Niyonzima wrapped the victory for the holders and ensured Yanga finish the first round on 33 points from 15 outings.

Shooting had a couple of chances to earn anything from the game, however, Yanga held on for maximum points. The result leaves Ruvu Shooting in seventh spot, while Young Africans head into the mid term break in second behind Simba, who suffered a 2-1 defeat against Prisons on Wednesday.

Fullzulu Maganga wasted the first really chance of the game after four minutes with a misdirected effort from inside the 18-yard box. Yanga, desperate to close the gap with rivals Simba at the top, poured forward in numbers in the opening minutes but found themselves a goal down when Mussa produced a clinical finish after a fine team move. The reigning champions responded by raising the temp of their play and attempted a few efforts, but to no avail.

Niyonzima fired an ambitious shot off target after 13 minutes and Obrey Chirwa drew a fine save from Ruvu Shooting keeper Abdallah Rashid moments later. Shooting were happy to sit back after taking the lead, which allowed Yanga to enjoy the lion’s share of possession. Yanga’s sweeping attack almost cancelled Shooting’s lead in the 21st minute, but Msuva, at the end of the move, fired an effort off target. Yanga went close in the 27th minute.

Niyonzima, who was orchestrating most of Yanga attacks, whipped in a dangerous cross into the box from the right flank but again Msuva’s thumping could not hit the target. A few minutes later Jabir Aziz came to Ruvu Shooting rescue when he made a timely intervention to cut out a dangerous ball into the box by Niyonzima.

Yanga’s persistence paid off after 37 minutes with Msuva squeezing the ball past goalkeeper following another fine work by Niyonzima down the right flank.

The two teams headed for the breather tied in a 1-all draw. Yanga head coach Hans Van der Pluijm, probably taking charge of his last game for the club due to impending arrival of Zambian tactician George Lwandamina, was sent to the standing after exchanging words with a match official.

That did not stop Yanga from taking the game to the scruff when the second half got underway and Amissi Tambwe narrowly missed out on Hassan Kessy’s cross from the right wing. Niyonzima capped his industrious performance with a stunning goal, firing a blockbuster from outside the box following Donald Ngoma lay-off in the 56th minute.

Tambwe thought he had notched the third after 68 minutes only to find out that the offside flag was up but replays suggested that he was onside when Kessy hit the cross.

The victors could have put the game beyond Shooting on a couple of occasions, but the army wardens defence was on hand to prevent their opponents from moving further ahead.

As the clock ticked towards 90, Shooting fashioned out more telling attacks and in one occasion hit the crossbar, but Yanga held on to claim all three points and put pressure on title rivals Simba as the league go for mid-break.

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Manchester City v Real Madrid: 'Kevin de Bruyne holds the key'

Manchester City definitely need to take a lead to the Bernabeu next week to give themselves a chance of winning their Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid.

If Real were to get a draw at Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, I would fancy them heavily in the second leg. So the first game is key for City.
Real's firepower means they will have chances in Manchester, of course, but City have match-winners too and they have to go for it while being clever and cautious at the same time.

It is going to be interesting who City manager Manuel Pellegrini goes with in midfield, where he needs to find that very delicate balance between trying to put Real on the back foot, while keeping the back door locked.
Yaya Toure's injury means City are likely to be without a key player and one of their main goal threats, but the form of Kevin de Bruyne means that is not as big a blow as it once would have been.

Who plays in front of the defence?

Fernandinho and Fernando have started City's last four Champions League knockout games, and were also midfield partners in their impressive 3-1 win in Sevilla in the group stage

Although he was fit, there was no room for Toure in the second leg of City's quarter-final win over Paris St-Germain because of the partnership of Fernandinho and Fernando.
Playing at the heart of City's midfield in Pellegrini's 4-2-3-1 formation, the Brazilian duo gave City legs, discipline and defensive cover.
Fernandinho and Fernando protected the back four so well, allowed the full-backs to get forward and gave the front players a great platform to work from.
Should they be picked together there again against Real? Yes, 100%.
Two dedicated holding midfielders are very important against such a good attacking side because City are going to come under pressure at times.
In central defence, Eliaquim Mangala and Nicolas Otamendi played well against PSG.
But Vincent Kompany is fit again and, if he is sharp enough after being rested against Stoke on Saturday, I would pick him and play Mangala alongside him for his powerful, physical presence.

Toure absence means De Bruyne becomes key

De Bruyne has scored four goals and made one assist since returning from a two-month injury lay-off at the start of April

In a game like this one, you are looking for players who can conjure up a moment of brilliance in the final third to make something happen out of nothing.
It is in this area where Pellegrini has the most options, even with Toure unavailable.
Toure can score from anywhere at any time so, in a game where City need goals, he will be a big miss.
But one advantage of him being out is that, while De Bruyne has the legs to play wide, he is better in that number 10 role. So, by playing him there you use him in the position where he is most effective.
Because of how good De Bruyne's end product is, Pellegrini will want him on the ball as much as possible.
There are times when you can be nullified centrally if a team packs out their midfield and the only space is wide but, more often than not, you get more touches of the ball in the centre and that will mean De Bruyne can create more.
Playing there he is also likely to have more chances to score himself too.
The £55m Belgian scored crucial goals in both legs of the quarter-final and the onus will be on him and Sergio Aguero to provide the main goal threat again.

Who else plays behind Aguero?

The problem with using De Bruyne as the number 10 is that it means pushing David Silva out wide, usually to the left.
That does not help to give the team width or protect his full-back, because he likes to drift inside himself.
Every time Silva does not track back, City will be vulnerable down the flanks because the Real full-backs will definitely push on when they are attacking.
From that point of view, Jesus Navas and Raheem Sterling offer the most pace and, with it, the most defensive cover.
But City need goals on Tuesday, so they cannot play both of them.
They lose a goal threat by playing Navas - he does not score enough - but Sterling has not played enough recently to get the nod in a game as big as this.
Silva is City's most creative player, which makes up for what he lacks defensively, so I would pick him on the left of De Bruyne, with Navas on the right.
Ideally all three of those players would offer a goal threat, but that trio gives the side balance and it is still an attacking selection.
I think that offers City their best hope. The away leg will be different, of course, but because they are at home and because they need goals, I would go with those three.

Why City should not change their approach now

The simple fact is City, with the players they have got and the way they usually set up, are not capable of sitting off, parking the bus and trying to nick a goal.
There is no way changing their tactics and philosophy at this stage of the competition will get them a result anyway. They have to believe in their ability, and really go after Real to cause them problems.
It won't be easy, though. You can get at Real defensively but I don't think they will take their eye off the prize in the same way they did in the first leg of their quarter-final, when they lost 2-0 in Wolfsburg.
Even then, they still turned the tie around at the Bernabeu.
If he is fit, Cristiano Ronaldo is their main threat because of the sheer number of goals he scores - more than anyone else in the team - but clearly they have other danger men like Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema too.
Both teams are set up to score goals and I think we are going to see a terrific tie.
Can Man City do it? Possibly. But Pellegrini's side will have to play really well in both matches and ride their luck at times to win the tie over two legs,
I make Real favourites but, if they get it right on Tuesday, I think City have got a chance.

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Marcus Rashford Euro 2016 inclusion unlikely - Roy Hodgson

Marcus Rashford does not turn 19 until 31 October

England boss Roy Hodgson says he would have to sacrifice a player who has "more reason to be called up" in order to fit teenage striker Marcus Rashford in his Euro 2016 squad.

Manchester United forward Rashford, 18, has seven goals in 13 outings since making his senior debut in February.
Hodgson has been "very impressed" with the teenager but said it was "unlikely" he would take him to France.

"I think it would be a very bold decision to put him in," added Hodgson.

Rashford, who is still six months short of his 19th birthday, marked his senior debut with two goals against FC Midtjylland in the Europa League.
Since then, the England Under-20 international has scored four Premier League goals, including winners against Manchester City and Aston Villa.
The youngster also scored at West Ham to help United book an FA Cup semi-final date at Wembley with Everton.
In March, Hodgson said he would "neither rule him in or rule him out" when asked if Rashford could make his squad for France this summer.

England's Euro 2016 Group B fixtures
11 June	v Russia	Marseille	20:00 BST
16 June	v Wales	Lens	14:00 BST
20 June	v Slovakia	Saint-Etienne	20:00 BST

Hodgson has numerous attacking options in the shape of United's Wayne Rooney, Tottenham's Harry Kane, Leicester's Jamie Vardy, Liverpool's Daniel Sturridge and Arsenal's Danny Welbeck.
In addition, West Ham's Andy Carroll has staked a claim after scoring six goals in his last five league games.
"I think it would mean possibly leaving someone behind who, at the moment, has more reason to be called up," said Hodgson when again asked about Rashford.
"But you never know. The fact is it would be foolish as well to say 'no, no, he's not ready, he can't do it'.
"I am sure he could do it.
"It's not inconceivable but it looks unlikely to me with the current players we've got and the competition for places in that area of the field."

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Eddie Jones: England coaches should gain experience abroad

Eddie Jones has coached in Japan, Australia, South Africa and now England

England boss Eddie Jones believes English club coaches should work overseas to boost their chances of succeeding at international level.

Stuart Lancaster, the former England head coach, said recently he was interested in coaching in the southern hemisphere.
Jones has urged Lancaster's compatriots to follow suit, adding that he believes the Premiership is "quite insular".

"I would 100% recommend going overseas," the Australian told the BBC.
"There's good things in New Zealand, South African and Australian rugby and for English coaches to experience that would definitely help their development."
Jones was speaking in a wide-ranging interview with BBC Radio 5 live, in which he also compared England fly-half George Ford's development to that of New Zealand great Dan Carter.
The England head coach said at times Ford "probably over-thinks the game" but added that he had plenty of time to improve.
"Carter was probably at his best aged 28," said Jones. "He had moments when he made mistakes when he was younger. Ford is still only 23 so is going to make mistakes."
Jones also gave an insight into what he looks for in a player, saying it is not just technical ability but also mentality.
He also spoke about the time Wallaby great George Smith trained with England, saying the 111-cap Australia flanker, who is currently playing for Wasps, "wasn't keen on wearing the kit".
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Letter from Africa: Why Nigeria's women out-kick the men

Getty Images

In our series of letters by African journalists, novelist and writer Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani blows her vuvuzela for Nigeria's Super Falcons.

Last week, Nigeria's national women's football team, the Super Falcons, secured a place in the 10th Africa Women's Cup of Nations scheduled to take place in Cameroon later this year.
Three weeks ago, their male counterparts, the Super Eagles, failed to qualify for the African Cup of Nations kicking off in Gabon at the start of 2017.
The Falcons are Africa's reigning champions; the Super Eagles have failed to qualify on two consecutive occasions.
Nigerians cannot be too surprised at the disparity of performance between our male and female teams.

Reality TV

Anyone who cared to look would have seen it coming.
The men's team sometimes comes across as a reality TV show rather than professionals who have been hired to win honour for their country.
There is always some new drama when it comes to keeping up with the Super Eagles.

The Super Eagles draw big crowds in comparison to the Super Falcons

In the past 12 months alone, the men's football team has had three different coaches.
Each replacement was heralded by incessant bickering between the coach and his players, and with the sport's national federation.
In October, goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama suddenly announced his retirement from the national team a day after he was officially stripped of the captain's armband by coach Sunday Oliseh.
Oliseh himself became the focus of the cameras in February, when a rant he posted on YouTube went viral.
Staring straight into the camera, with what appeared to be family photos in the background, he accused some of the team's critics as "insane" for expecting Nigeria to win every single match, then concluded the almost three-minute tirade with a heartfelt prayer for God to bless the critics with the same apparent ill-will that they wish the Eagles.
Oliseh was soon replaced by the current acting coach, Samson Siasia.

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Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani:

Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani

"The Nigerian Football Federation's poor treatment of the women's football team is just another example of the enormous inequality that Nigerian women suffer in many sectors of society"

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In sharp contrast, the Nigeria women's football team go about their business without much drama.
The one time they attracted the kind of embarrassing attention that typically comes to Nigeria from their male counterparts was in June 2015, when their coach, Edwin Okon, apparently refused to shake hands with US coach, Jill Ellis, who approached him with her hand outstretched after Nigeria lost a match to her team.
But then, Okon is a man.

Bonus row

The Super Falcons have won the women's Africa Nations Cup - formerly known as the African Women's Championship - more than any other country - an impressive nine times.
They have also made it to every Women's World Cup since the Fifa competition began in 1991.

The Super Falcons have an excellent record, winning the African title nine times

But despite the women's team being a sure-fire powerhouse in Africa, who continue to do their country proud, the Nigerian Football Federation does not seem to think that the women's team deserves to be treated well.
News reports stated that the Falcons were handed a paltry 10,000 naira each ($50, £35) after they successfully booked a ticket to the 2016 Africa Women's Cup of Nations.
This is in contrast with the men's team, whose players get paid $4,000 each for a draw and $5,000 for a win.
The women are also reportedly still owed their bonuses for qualifying for last year's World Cup in Canada.
None of this is new.
Back in 2010, Nigerian sport journalist Nnamdi Okosieme reported extensively on how the Falcons had been playing for peanuts.
The women received $500 for every match won at the World Cup, while the men got $30,000.
And, while the male team were lodged in five-star hotels, the women's team was regularly kept in substandard accommodation, he said.

It's a hard life being a Super Eagles fan these days

The Nigerian Football Federation's poor treatment of the women's football team is just another example of the enormous inequality that Nigerian women suffer in many sectors of society.
The new Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted in September by UN member states, including Nigeria, offer a unique opportunity to address many of these issues.
Sports can be an important enabler for development and women's empowerment.
Bridging the treatment gap between the country's men's and women's football teams is a good place for the Nigerian government to display its official commitment to gender equality.
So let's blow the whistle on such sexism - and celebrate all our "Super" sporting successes.

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African Champs League: Zamalek, Zesco and Setif through

Egypt's Zamalek and former champions Entente Setif of Algeria have joined Zambia's Zesco United in the group stages of the African Champions League.

Zamalek, coached by former Birmingham City and Aston Villa boss Alex McLeish, grabbed a late equaliser against Mouloudia Bejaia to progress 3-1 on aggregate.
The success eases some of the pressure on McLeish, who's side are trailing their great rivals Al Ahly in the Egyptian league by 11 points.

Setif, African champions in 2014, were held to a goalless draw at home by Sudan's Al Merreikh.
Coupled with a 2-all draw from the first leg, that takes them through on away goals.
And Zesco beat Mali's Stade Malien 2-1 on Tuesday to complete a 5-2 victory on aggregate and become the first team to reach the Champions League group stage.
Zesco's Jesse Were scored the opener for the hosts after five minutes.
Samake Issaka equalised after the break for visitors Mali, but an 80th-minute close-range effort from Maybin Mwaba made certain of their progress.
Malien's misery was complete when Issaka was sent off on 89 minutes.
The losers get a second chance as they enter the draw for the play-offs in the second-tier Confederation Cup.
There are five more matches on Wednesday, while the draw for the group phase takes place on Friday at CAF headquarters on Thursday.

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Andy Carroll: Bad refereeing calls cost West Ham against Leicester

Jonathan Moss ruled Andy Carroll to have fouled Jeffrey Schlupp in the penalty area

West Ham striker Andy Carroll says referee Jonathan Moss tried to "even things up" by awarding Leicester City an injury-time penalty on Sunday.

Moss penalised Carroll when Leicester's Jeffrey Schlupp went down in the area, allowing Leonardo Ulloa to convert from the spot to make it 2-2.
The Hammers were awarded a penalty earlier in the game when Wes Morgan pulled back Winston Reid.

Carroll accused Moss of giving "bad decisions" throughout the game.
"It's not acceptable," said the former Liverpool and Newcastle United frontman. "Week in, week out, we've had bad decisions.
Analysis: MOTD2 pundits on referee's 'mind-boggling inconsistencies'
"I mean, it is a bad decision. It's not the first time and probably won't be the last. I think he's trying to even it up and a lot of people have said that."
Moss also sent off Foxes striker Jamie Vardy, handing him a second yellow card for diving in the box.
The England international had opened the scoring for the Premier League leaders before Carroll levelled from the spot following Morgan's foul on Reid.
Aaron Creswell then gave the visitors the lead before Ulloa salvaged a point for Leicester to move them eight points clear of second-placed Tottenham, who travel to Stoke on Monday night.
Carroll claims the Hammers would have been occupying a Champions League spot had decisions gone their way this season.
Instead, they are sixth, three points behind Manchester United and seven adrift of Arsenal in fourth
"We could be third and flying," said Carroll. "Now we're still fighting for fourth, fifth spot and we're slipping down by losing these points.
"It is just disappointing and there's nothing we can do about it."

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Jonas Gutierrez: Newcastle players congratulated me after tribunal victory

Jonas Gutierrez spent seven years with Newcastle United

Jonas Gutierrez says his former Newcastle United team-mates phoned to congratulate him on winning an employment tribunal against the club.

It ruled he was dropped by Newcastle because of his cancer diagnosis, with the 32-year-old suing for about £2m on grounds of disability discrimination.
Gutierrez called the ruling a "relief" but says he "can't understand" the St James' Park club's treatment of him.

"I am so frustrated about that period," the Argentine told BBC Sportshour.
The tribunal also ruled on Thursday that the club made it impossible for Gutierrez to trigger an appearance-based contract extension.
"I have good pals from my time there," he said.
"Players I have played a long period with, like Perchy [James Perch], Ryan Taylor, [Dan] Gosling, Robbie Elliott - we were so close and we continue talking sometimes."
He added: "They know what things were going on. They can't understand the way [Newcastle] treated me.
"When the court announced, they called me and said congrats because they know what I had to go through."

'I want to set a precedent'

Gutierrez, who joined Newcastle from Real Mallorca in 2008, was diagnosed with testicular cancer in October 2013.
The Argentina international sued Newcastle over the way he was treated following his diagnosis and claimed the Premier League club saw him as a liability after he returned from treatment.
Claims of unfavourable treatment and another of harassment related to disability were dismissed.
Gutierrez says he was always "honest" during his seven-year spell at St James' Park and did not directly blame owner Mike Ashley.
He said: "I don't want to say it was him.
"I don't want to speak too much about this, but one who runs the club is Mike Ashley - he is the owner, so he makes the decisions over there."
During the tribunal, Gutierrez's mother Monica Montore said she "wanted to take my own life at the club's door" due to the treatment of her son.
The midfielder says his family found it "tough", adding "it was as difficult for them as me".

Jonas Gutierrez posted this message to Mike Ashley on Twitter

However, he wants his case to set a precedent for employees, not just footballers, who face similar battles.
"For me, it was the worst period in my life," he added. "I didn't deserve that type of treatment.
"It's important to leave a precedent for the future. No-one can go through this again - not footballers or any employees, that is more important.
"It made me learn a lot about life. Now we're here I'm really happy about what I've been through. To be alive and be healthy is more important for me."
Newcastle United were contacted for a response and referred to their original statement from Thursday.
"The tribunal has now given its decision in the case brought against the club by Jonas Gutierrez. It found for him on two of the four heads of claim.
"We recognise that the task facing the tribunal was a difficult one, but we are dismayed by its decision. We will now take time to consider the judgement in full and consult with our legal team to understand the options available to us."

'Once a Geordie, always a Geordie'

Newcastle currently sit 19th in the Premier League table and six points from safety, but Gutierrez says he hopes Rafael Benitez's side can avoid relegation.
"I want them to stay up," he said. "The city and the fans don't deserve to go down.
"It is a massive club. The fans are massive and they deserve to stay in the Premier League. They're in a tough situation, but I say to the fans to be positive, to believe.
"It is for me, the best years in my career. The fans, the city make me feel so at home. Once a Geordie, always a Geordie is something that is totally true.
"Once you play in that shirt you want to support that team."

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