Simba versus Young Africans Kariakoo derby gets new venue

The Tanzania Premier League Board (TPLB) has announced the change of venue for the eagerly-awaited match number 169 of the NBC Premier League season 2025-26, between sworn rivals Simba SC and Young Africans SC, popularly known as the Kariakoo derby.

According to the statement, the match, which was previously to be played at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, will now be held at the Major General Isamuhyo Stadium, located in Dar es Salaam.

 

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The change is due to the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium being under renovation, which forced the organizers to find an alternative to ensure the match takes place at the scheduled time.

TPLB says all clubs already informed

The match will be played on May 3, starting at 6pm (E.A.T). TPLB further stated all clubs and other stakeholders in the league have already been informed of the change, while preparations are underway to ensure the game is played at the best level that meets the status of the league.

Responding to the changes, Simba Media Officer, Ahmed Ally explained the reasons why the Kariakoo derby was moved to the Major General Isamuhyo Stadium instead of Benjamin Mkapa.

Ally said the initial agreement between both clubs, along with the football authorities and the government, was for a big match like the derby to be played at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

Simba will seek to close gap at top

However, after Simba submitted an official request to the stadium owners, they received information the Mkapa Stadium was undergoing renovations and improvements in preparation for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Due to this situation, Simba was forced to look for an alternative stadium, and decided to use the Isamuhyo Stadium which is already being used as their home stadium this season.

Ally stressed the decision was based on the existing circumstances, with the club following all procedures to ensure the game takes place as planned.

Simba will be seeking to get a win and close in on their rivals, who have already opened a five-point gap at the top of the table. Young Africans have 47 points, while Simba are second with 42.