YOUNG Africans SC interim head coach Abdihamid Moalin admitted that costly defensive mistakes and missed opportunities were the main reasons behind his side's painful 3-2 defeat to Azam FC in the semi-final of the Federation Cup at CCM Kirumba Stadium in Mwanza.

The defeat ended Young Africans’ hopes of reaching the final and left the club with only league commitments remaining this season.

Speaking after the dramatic encounter, Moalin expressed disappointment with the manner in which his team conceded goals, especially after they had fought back strongly and gained a numerical advantage following Azam's red card in the second half.

"We controlled the game in the second half and had the match in our hands after equalising and when Azam were reduced to 10 men," said Moalin.

The Young Africans coach believed his players dominated possession and dictated the tempo after the break, creating several opportunities through Prince Dube, Allan Okello and other attacking players.

However, despite the pressure, Young Africans were unable to fully capitalise on their superiority and were punished by defensive lapses at crucial moments.

Moalin pointed to the goals conceded from set-piece situations and the decisive extra-time winner as examples of mistakes that ultimately proved costly.

"We conceded simple goals. The goals from set pieces should have been avoided and the third goal was very painful. Sometimes football is difficult to explain immediately after the match, but we know we made mistakes and failed to take our chances," he said.

The interim coach also clarified the reasons behind two important substitutions that attracted attention during the game. Moalin revealed that striker Dube's withdrawal was not part of the tactical plan.

According to the coach, the Zimbabwean forward began feeling unwell during the match and was unable to continue.

"Prince was feeling dizzy and sick, so we had no choice but to take him off," he explained.

In contrast, the substitution of midfielder Mudathir Yahya was purely tactical.

Moalin said he wanted to introduce fresh energy and a different attacking dimension from the bench, a move he felt initially worked as Young Africans increased pressure on Azam.

Moalin also highlighted what he described as a significant disadvantage in terms of recovery time.

The coach noted that Azam entered the semi-final having enjoyed two extra days of rest compared to Young Africans, something he believes had an impact considering the demanding stage of the season.

"A difference of 48 hours at this point of the season is important for players," he said.

Despite that challenge, the coach praised his squad for their determination and fighting spirit throughout the full 120 minutes.

He commended the players for continuing to battle despite fatigue and disappointment.

While clearly frustrated by the elimination, Moalin insisted the team would not dwell on the defeat. The coach stressed that Young Africans must quickly recover mentally and physically as they prepare for upcoming premier league fixture against Azam fc in Zanzibar.

"There is no time for excuses. We have to reset our minds, travel and prepare for the next matches," he said.

With the Federation Cup dream now over, Young Africans’ focus turns to finishing the season strongly as they seek to bounce back from one of their most painful defeats of the campaign.