Shalulile scores as Yanga beat Namungo 3–1 in league opener

Boka opened his scoring account for the new campaign with a well-taken header after rising to meet a superb cross from Housseine Zakouani. The goal finally unlocked a Namungo defence that had managed to keep Yanga at bay for much of the opening period.

Yanga quickly built on their advantage, doubling their lead just four minutes later. Max Nzengeli produced an impressive strike from outside the penalty area after receiving a well-timed pass from Mudathir Yahaya.

With Yanga appearing to be in complete control, Namungo refused to surrender and pulled a goal back in the 76th minute through Herbert Lukindo. The goal gave the hosts renewed belief and raised hopes of a comeback.

However, Yanga responded decisively and restored their two-goal advantage through new signing Peter Shalulile.

The South African striker capitalised on a costly defensive mistake involving Namungo defender Frank Magingi.

Magingi delayed his attempt to clear a back-pass, allowing Shalulile to pounce on the loose ball. The striker then calmly beat goalkeeper Suleiman Abraham to register his first league goal for Yanga.

The result gives Yanga an ideal start to their campaign as they begin their pursuit of a sixth consecutive league title. It also marks a positive beginning to the NBC Premier League for head coach Manqoba Mngqithi.

Mngqithi, who took charge of Yanga ahead of the new campaign, has already guided the club to success in the Community Shield. The victory over Namungo now adds another positive result to his early spell in charge.

Yanga will take confidence from the performance, particularly their ability to respond after Namungo reduced the deficit. With the champions showing their attacking quality in the second half, Mngqithi will be encouraged by the early signs as his side sets out to defend their domestic crown.

For Namungo, the defeat will be disappointing, especially after competing strongly during the opening half and creating a brief opportunity to fight back after Lukindo's goal.

Nevertheless, Yanga's experience and attacking quality ultimately proved decisive, with Boka, Nzengeli and Shalulile finding the net to secure three important points and launch the champions' title defence on a winning note.