Young Africans SC (Yanga) have admitted that overcoming their archrivals Simba SC will not be an easy task, as the two giants prepare to clash in the decisive Kariakoo Derby that will determine the 2024/25 Tanzania Premier League champion.
The high-stakes encounter is scheduled for Tuesday, June 25, 2025, at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam. With both sides in contention for the title, the outcome of the match will decide who lifts this season’s trophy.
Speaking at a joint press briefing with the Tanzania Premier League Board (TPLB) on Sunday, Yanga Chief Executive Officer Hersi Said Kamwe said that while the team is fully focused and well-prepared, they expect a highly competitive and intense match against Simba.
“It is always tough to get a win against Simba. We understand the magnitude of this fixture. Anything can happen. If we win or draw, we will successfully defend our title. However, if Simba wins, they will be crowned champions,” Kamwe said.
He added that the team is taking no chances and is approaching the match with the seriousness it demands, fully aware of the threat posed by their rivals.
“Simba will come into the game with clear intentions to win. We are ready and taking every necessary precaution to ensure we secure the result we need,” he noted.
Kamwe also announced the ticket prices for the much-anticipated derby. He said VIP A tickets are already sold out, while VIP B and VIP C are available for Sh30,000 and Sh20,000 respectively. Tickets for the Orange Stand will go for Sh10,000, and regular stands (Mzunguko) for Sh5,000.
He called on Yanga supporters to fill the stadium and provide strong moral support to the players.
“We urge our fans to turn out in large numbers. Their presence means everything to our players and can give them the push they need on such a crucial day,” he said.
Kamwe, however, deferred questions regarding the team’s travel schedule and player fitness to the technical bench, which is expected to address the media later on Monday.
On his part, TPLB Communications Officer Karim Boimanda commended the level of competition exhibited throughout the season, describing it as one of the most balanced campaigns in recent years.
“We’ve had a very competitive season, and now it comes down to the Kariakoo Derby, which has attracted widespread attention from fans both locally and internationally,” Boimanda said.
He revealed that the league’s championship trophy will be officially handed over to the winner immediately after the match and thanked the government for its continued commitment to supporting the growth of sports in the country.
Boimanda also expressed gratitude to league sponsors and media partners for their contributions in making the season a success.
Meanwhile, N Card Marketing Officer Catherine Chami clarified that fans who purchased tickets for the originally scheduled match on March 8 which was postponed will be allowed entry with their original cards.
“Those who lost their cards should visit the French Embassy offices for assistance with replacement. Fans who are unsure about the validity of their tickets are advised to visit our headquarters with their phones for verification before match day,” said Chami.
The Kariakoo Derby, widely regarded as one of East Africa’s fiercest football rivalries, is expected to deliver a thrilling finale to the season as both clubs battle for domestic supremacy.