Young Africans Sports Club (Yanga SC) have retained the NBC Tanzania Premier League for the 2024/2025 season, sealing their triumph with a decisive 2-0 victory over bitter rivals Simba SC in the highly anticipated Kariakoo Derby on Wednesday evening.
Played at a packed Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, the win not only handed Yanga a fitting end to the season but also extended their record haul of domestic league titles to 31 further solidifying their status as the country’s most decorated club.
The derby lived up to expectations, with both teams showing early attacking intent and tactical discipline.
However, neither side managed to convert their chances in the first half, which ended goalless despite moments of brilliance on both ends.
The breakthrough came in the 66th minute when Ivorian midfielder Stephane Aziz Ki, popularly known as Pacome Zouzoua, coolly converted a penalty after being brought down by Simba goalkeeper Moussa Camara inside the box.
With Simba pressing for an equalizer, Yanga coach Miguel Gamondi introduced fresh legs, including Clement Mzize, who made an immediate impact.
The youngster found the net in the 86th minute with a clinical finish, dashing Simba’s hopes of a late comeback and igniting celebrations among the Jangwani faithful.
The final whistle confirmed Yanga’s 2-0 triumph and saw them finish the season with 82 points, four clear of second-placed Simba, who ended with 78.
Beyond domestic glory, the victory is expected to boost Yanga’s confidence as they prepare for continental assignments in the CAF Champions League, where they hope to build on their recent strong performances in Africa.
Yanga Starting XI:Djigui Diarra (GK), Israel Mwenda, Chadrack Boka, Ibrahim Abdullah, Dickson Job, Khalid Aucho, Maxi Nzengeli, Duke Abuya, Pacome Zouzoua, Prince Dube, Mudathir Yahya.
Simba Starting XI:Moussa Camara (GK), Shomari Kapombe, Mohammed Hussein, Che Malone, Karaboue Chamou, Yusuph Kagoma, Joshua Mutale, Steven Mukwala, Jean Ahoua, Elie Mpanzu.
Yanga’s latest title defence underlines their resurgence in recent years, combining consistency, depth, and tactical excellence to dominate the local football scene.