Ligi Kuu Bara: Kariakoo Derby postponed!

After a contentious build up to the latest edition of Tanzania’s most anticipated clash, the Kariakoo Derby between Tanzania Mainland Premier League giants Simba SC and Young Africans, Saturday’s meeting has been postponed.

The controversy began on Friday when Simba were prevented from entering the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium to train at the venue that was set to play host to the match. The Reds put out a statement expressing their disappointment at the development as well as threatening to not honor the fixture due to these circumstances.

The controversy only gained more speed over the following hours, prompting the Tanzanian Premier League Board (TPLB) to issue a strongly worded statement warning Simba about potential consequences if they refused to take part in the match:

Now the Tanzania Mainland Premier League board has issued a statement declaring Saturday’s match to be postponed. In its statement the board acknowledged potential violations from both clubs and that an investigation in the coming days will allow it to make a judgement regarding any sanctions or punishments.

Key points from the statement as translated by Pan-Africa Football’s Dennis Kegengo:

Pan-Africa Football will provide any further updates as they develop.