Yanga SC claimed the NMB Mapinduzi Cup title after edging Azam FC 5-4 in a dramatic penalty shootout during the final at Gombani Stadium, Pemba, Zanzibar today.
The two sides ended the 90 minutes of regular time goalless, pushing the game to penalties. Yanga showed remarkable composure, converting all five of their spot-kicks, while Azam missed one, handing Yanga the trophy.
The match kicked off at a high tempo, with both teams cautious yet aggressive, carefully guarding their goals while probing for openings. Despite several chances in the first half, neither side could break the deadlock.
The second half saw continued end-to-end action, with defenders and goalkeepers on both sides making crucial interventions. Even with persistent attacks, the scoreboard remained unchanged, setting the stage for the nerve-wracking penalty showdown.
In the shootout, Yanga’s precision proved decisive. Their flawless five-from-five performance contrasted with Azam’s single miss, giving Yanga a 5-4 victory and reinforcing their dominance in the Mapinduzi Cup history. Azam, meanwhile, walked away with pride, having pushed the final to the limit.
Fans were treated to a match full of excitement, discipline, and high-quality football, underlining the growing prestige of the NMB Mapinduzi Cup in Tanzanian football.