Namibian striker Peter Shalulile made a dream start to his new chapter in Tanzania, scoring on his Young Africans SC league debut.
The Tanzanian giants opened their NBC Premier League campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Namungo FC, as well as winning the community shield trophy.
The goal comes just days after Shalulile was officially unveiled as one of Young Africans’ new signings during the club’s traditional Yanga Day celebrations at Uhuru Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
Yanga Day saw thousands of passionate supporters gather to welcome the club’s new recruits, with Shalulile receiving a huge reception from the Yanga faithful. He also featured in the club’s Yanga Day fixture against Aigles du Congo, where Young Africans suffered a 2-1 defeat.
Shalulile also won his first trophy with Young Africans after they defeated Simba SC 1-0 to win the Tanzanian Community Shield.
He joined Young Africans following the expiry of his contract with South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns FC, bringing an end to a highly successful spell in South Africa.
During his time with Sundowns, the Namibian international achieved numerous milestones, including breaking the Premier Soccer League all-time goalscoring record and winning nine trophies with the club.
Now beginning a new chapter in Tanzania, Shalulile has wasted no time making his presence felt.
The 32-year-old was handed a starting berth against Namungo FC in front of a packed stadium, with thousands of Yanga supporters eager to see their new star in competitive action for the first time.
Shalulile repaid that faith in the 88th minute when he found the back of the net to put the finishing touch on a 3-1 victory and send the home supporters into celebration.
Speaking after the game, Shalulile praised the team’s fighting spirit and the support from the technical staff and his teammates.
“It was a good fight from the boys and a good spirit. The belief from the coach and those on the bench really supported us.”
The Namibian striker also highlighted the team’s ambition for the season, insisting that Young Africans are building a strong squad capable of competing for every major prize.
“We give glory to the Lord. We are building and we have a good team. We want to compete in each and every final.”
Shalulile credited head coach Manqoba Mngqithi for pushing the team and demanding more from the players.
“He believes in us and keeps motivating us to give our best.”
Shalulile also opened up about his decision to join Young Africans after receiving interest from clubs across Africa.
“It was not easy. There were a lot of clubs around Africa that wanted to sign me and were calling me, but I chose the big club, Young Africans.”
The striker expressed his appreciation to Young Africans chairman Hersi Said for helping make the move possible.
Despite the pressure and expectations that come with joining one of Tanzania’s biggest clubs, Shalulile believes the season can be a special one.
“I believe that this year and this season will be a great season.”
Shalulile also spoke highly of the atmosphere surrounding Tanzanian football, particularly the passion shown by Young Africans supporters.
“It is an amazing and beautiful atmosphere in Tanzania. The fans have been incredible.”
After scoring on his competitive debut, Shalulile has already given the Yanga faithful a glimpse of what they can expect from their new striker.
