Abuya to play under new coach in Tanzania following sacking of Portuguese tactician
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Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 06.05.26. | 21:12
The Portuguese was shown the door barely moments after their narrow win over KMC on Wednesday
Young Africans Sports Club, home to Harambee Stars midfielder Duke Abuya, has officially parted ways with head coach Pedro Gonçalves with immediate effect, bringing an abrupt end to a seven-month spell.
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In a statement released through their official communication channels, the Tanzanian giants confirmed the decision, noting that the Portuguese tactician’s departure marks the conclusion of a partnership that began in October 2025.
“The management of Young Africans Sports Club would like to inform the public that it has terminated the services of head coach Pedro Gonçalves.
"The club’s leadership thanks Coach Pedro Gonçalves for his contribution during his time at the club and wishes him all the best in his future endeavors.
"During this period, the team will be under the guidance of coach Abdihamid Moalin together with coach Patrick Mabedi until the end of the season,” read part of the statement.
Despite the sudden exit, the Portuguese national leaves behind a team firmly in control of its domestic ambitions.
During his spell, the 50-year old guided the reigning Tanzania Premier League champions to the 2025 Mapinduzi Cup final and maintained their dominance at the top of the league standings.
The decision comes at a time when Yanga remain in strong form and in a surprising end just hours after guiding the club to a 1-0 win over KMC FC at the KMC Complex.
The result extended their winning momentum and reinforced their position at the summit of the table.
In that midweek fixture, Abuya was handed a starting role and delivered a disciplined performance lasting just over an hour, contributing significantly to the team’s control in midfield.
The decisive moment of the match came through Ugandan forward Allan Okello, who once again proved his value with a match-winning strike, expertly set up by Shekhan Khamis.
The victory not only marked Yanga’s 15th league win of the season but also widened the gap at the top of the table to five points over arch-rivals Simba SC.
While the timing of Gonçalves’ dismissal has raised eyebrows given the club’s strong position, Yanga have moved swiftly to ensure stability.
The appointment of Abdihamid Moalin alongside Patrick Mabedi signals a clear intent to maintain continuity as the club enters the decisive phase of the season.