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Yanga's Duke Abuya credits Kariobangi Sharks for integral role in career
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Reading Time: 3min | Mon. 04.08.25. | 10:09
In matches like the last edition of the Kariokoo Derby final against arch-rivals Simba SC, Abuya’s versatility was on full display
Duke Abuya has become a key figure in Yanga SC’s midfield, earning himself praises for his tactical intelligence, work rate, and precise passing.
However, behind his impressive performances, the midfield maestro credits his former club, Kariobangi Sharks, for laying the foundation that has made him such a vital player in the Tanzanian giants’ setup.
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Speaking to Mozzart Sport about his style of play and recent rise in prominence, Abuya acknowledged that his current performances are built on the principles he learned at Sharks.
The FKF Premier League club is renowned for its emphasis on passing and technical development.
“I have played for Kariobangi Sharks, and it was more of a passing team. That is where my awareness and skillful passing came from. I just feel that now, the audience is bigger and people are seeing it. But it is something that has been there for a long time,” he said.
Since joining Yanga, Abuya has shown noticeable improvement, particularly in his passing accuracy and decision-making under pressure.
He describes his style in three words: simple, full of movement, and precise, a direct reflection of the philosophy instilled in him during his Sharks days.
In matches like the last edition of the Kariokoo Derby final against arch-rivals Simba SC, Abuya’s versatility was on full display.
He operated as the vital link between defence and attack, often dropping deep during build-up phases to create numerical superiority and ease ball progression.
His ability to read the game and adjust his positioning allowed Yanga to beat Simba’s high press and smoothly transition the ball into midfield.
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As the play advanced, Abuya would push forward, timing his late runs into the final third to connect with second balls or create overloads in key attacking areas.
His movement and spatial awareness gave Yanga structural balance even in moments of aggressive pressing or quick transitions.
His work off the ball was equally impressive. He covered significant ground, pressing high, recovering defensively, and ensuring the team maintained shape, a trait that allowed his former teammate Khalid Aucho to sit deeper and control the game’s tempo.
This balance in the double pivot was essential in a match where dominance was not just about ball possession, but territorial control and transitional effectiveness.
“I adapt easily and understand what the coach wants tactically. When you play in more than one position, you never lack a role in the team. If you follow what the coach wants, it becomes easy,” Abuya revealed.
On Monday, 28 July, Yanga officially announced that Abuya had completed a permanent move to the club.
The 31-year-old signed a two-year contract extension that will see him stay at the club until July 2027.
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