With only two days remaining before the highly anticipated Kariakoo Derby, the excitement is building among various stakeholders, including fans, players, and coaches, who are carefully analyzing their strategies and preparing mentally for the match.
As the game draws closer, these stakeholders have shared their thoughts on what to expect.
Former Yanga striker, Mohamed Hussein 'Mmmachinga,' believes the match will be fiercely competitive, with both teams determined to secure a win.
He urged Simba supporters to turn out in large numbers but cautioned them not to expect too much, as the outcome may not go as they hope.
"The match will be tough and thrilling; each team will play based on how well they’ve prepared, and the winner should emerge fairly," Mmmachinga said.
On the subject of the current top scorer in the Premier League, he expressed gratitude that he still holds the record of 26 goals, a feat he achieved in 1999, which no one has managed to match since.
Former Simba Chairman, Hassan Dalali, emphasized that players should focus on playing the ball rather than getting distracted by external pressure.
He highlighted the importance of fighting hard for a good result in order to meet their objectives for the match.
"What I want to say is, play the ball; if we are losing, the battles on the field are what matter, and players should follow the coach’s instructions," Dalali remarked.
Veteran Yanga player, Mudhihir Mudhihir, pointed out that competition in the derby extends beyond the 90 minutes on the field, starting during the preparation phase.
"Today, the rivalry begins two weeks before the match, which means everyone is strategizing their approach in order to achieve their goals," Mudhihir explained.
Yanga currently leads the standings with 58 points from 22 games, while their rivals, Simba, are in second place with 54 points from 21 games.