Simba SC reaffirms commitment to Kariakoo derby despite Yanga SC's stance

Photo Credit - Simba SC Tanzania.

While Young Africans (Yanga SC) insist they will not take part in the Mainland Premier League Kariakoo derby, their rivals Simba SC have assured their fans the derby is still on and they should get ready to fill Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

Simba’s strong statement comes just a day after the Citizens issued their own statement publicly declaring that they will not take part in the match unless four key demands are met by the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) and the Tanzania Premier League Board (TPLB).

“Simba SC would like to inform our members, fans, and the public that match number 184 against Yanga, scheduled for June 15, 2025, will take place as planned,” read part of the Simba statement.

Simba SC statement.

“We advise our fans not to be distracted by outside noise. Those who purchased tickets for the original March 8, 2025, fixture, which was postponed, should hold on to them as they will remain valid. For those who have not yet bought tickets, we encourage you to be ready to purchase them as soon as the League Board announces the resumption of ticket sales.”

The statement concluded: “The NBC Premier League is composed of 16 teams and does not revolve around one club. At the beginning of each season, all teams take part in consultations and propose recommendations to improve rules and procedures that govern the league. Any team with concerns must follow the proper channels to raise those issues.”

The Yanga vs Simba derby is crucial for both teams as it could decide the winner of the league title at the end of the season. The Citizens are currently sitting at the top of the Premier League standings with 73 points from 27 matches, having won 24, drawn one, and lost two. Simba lie second with 72 points from the same number of matches.