In a stunning display of football prowess, Uganda Cranes vice-captain Khalid Aucho led Young Africans SC to a resounding victory in the storied Kariakoo Derby, part of the Tanzanian Premier League's thrilling match-ups.
The Young Africans, often referred to as Yanga, handed down a crushing 5-1 defeat to their arch-rivals Simba SC on Sunday at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, despite Simba playing on their home turf.
The eagerly awaited derby sparked to life from the onset, with Yanga's Kennedy Musonda finding the back of the net just three minutes into the game.
Simba's Denis Kibu swiftly responded with an equalizer in the ninth minute, setting an electrifying pace for the match. The first half concluded with the teams locked at one goal apiece.
As play resumed, it was clear Yanga had elevated their game, dominating the field and rattling Simba with a barrage of four unanswered goals in the second half.
Max Mpia Nzengeli emerged as the standout performer, clinching a double in the 64th and 78th minutes.
The scoreline was further bolstered by Stephane Aziz Ki and Peodoh Pocome Zouzoua, who added their names to the tally in the 74th and 87th minutes, respectively.
Aucho remained a formidable presence throughout the match, playing the full 90 minutes. Conversely, his fellow countryman, Gift Fred, was notably absent from the pitch on the day.
This emphatic win marks Yanga's first triumph over the 'Reds of Msimbazi' in their last five league encounters, with their previous victory dating back to a tight 1-0 win in July 2021.
This decisive derby success propelled Young Africans to the zenith of the Ligi Kuu Bara standings with 21 points from eight matches.
On the other hand, Simba SC, holding a game in hand, linger in third place with 18 points.
Looking ahead, Simba SC is slated to host Namungo on Thursday, November 9, as they aim to bounce back from this setback.
Meanwhile, Yanga is set to face Coastal Union in an away fixture the day prior, riding high on their derby dominance.