Prime
Yanga left-back battle heats up after Tshabalala’s arrival
Yanga’s new left-back signing, Mohammed “Tshabalala” Hussein, poses with the club’s new jersey. PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- The experienced defender, who made a high-profile switch from archrivals Simba SC, are now faced with the challenge of displacing Shadrack Boka, one of Yanga’s most reliable players from last season
Dar es Salaam. Newly signed left-back Mohammed “Tshabalala” Hussein may have penned a lucrative deal with Yanga SC, but earning a regular starting place will be far from easy.
The experienced defender, who made a high-profile switch from archrivals Simba SC, are now faced with the challenge of displacing Shadrack Boka, one of Yanga’s most reliable players from last season.
Boka, a DR Congo international, firmly established himself as Yanga’s first-choice left-back following the dip in form and eventual departure of his compatriot Joyce Lomalisa Mutambala. Since then, he has impressed the technical team with his pace, work ethic, and defensive discipline.
Despite the excitement surrounding Tshabalala’s blockbuster transfer, Boka remains the player to beat. Sources within the club describe him as “dependable and disciplined,” noting that his deep understanding of the team’s tactical structure gives him a significant edge.
Tshabalala’s quest for playing time is further complicated by the presence of Kibwana Shomari, who, although primarily a right-back, has occasionally stepped in at left-back when needed. His versatility makes him an invaluable asset to the technical bench, offering tactical options based on match-specific needs.
However, even Shomari is not guaranteed a regular role in his natural position. The right-back slot is currently one of the most hotly contested areas in the team, with Kouassi Attohoula Yao returning from injury and Israel Mwenda, a recent signing during the mini transfer window, also in contention.
Mwenda was brought in specifically to cover for Yao during his absence and has shown promise.
This depth and competition mean that both full-back positions at Yanga are among the most competitive in the squad.
The club’s recent domestic and regional success has been underpinned by a solid and consistent backline, and head coach Romain Folz is known to value fitness, form, and tactical discipline above reputation or price tag.
For Tshabalala, this means that his experience and leadership alone will not be enough. He will need to impress in training, stay fit, and deliver when called upon in match situations.
