The highly anticipated Kariakoo Derby between Tanzanian football giants Simba SC and Young Africans is facing uncertainty, despite Simba’s firm commitment to the fixture.
The match, which could determine the destination of the Tanzanian Premier League title, is scheduled for June 15, 2025.
Yanga’s Demands and TFF’s Rebuttal
The drama unfolded when Yanga SC publicly announced their refusal to participate in the derby unless specific demands were met by the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) and the Tanzania Premier League Board (TPLB). These demands reportedly include the payment of outstanding prize money from the 2023/24 season.
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However, the TFF has swiftly refuted Yanga’s claims regarding unpaid prize money. In a twist, the TFF stated that it is actually Young Africans who owe money to the federation, directly contradicting Yanga’s stance.
Simba SC’s Stance and Fan Assurance
In response to their rivals’ threats, Simba SC, coached by South African Fadlu Davids, issued a statement reaffirming their readiness and commitment to playing the match. The “Red Lions of Msimbazi” urged their supporters to disregard the “outside noise” and fill the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium for the crucial encounter.
“Simba SC would like to inform our members, fans, and the public that match number 184 against Yanga, scheduled for June 15, 2025, will take place as planned,” read the official club statement.
The club also provided guidance for fans who had purchased tickets for the original March 8, 2025, fixture, which was postponed after Simba claimed they were denied access to the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium for pre-match training. Those tickets will remain valid, and new ticket sales will resume once announced by the League Board.
Potential Penalties and Title Implications
Yanga’s refusal to play carries significant consequences. According to reports from The Citizen, the club faces a hefty penalty of Sh600 million (approximately $230,500) and may still be compelled to play the rescheduled match.
The outcome of this derby holds immense weight for the Tanzanian Premier League title race. Currently, Simba SC sits at the top of the table, just one point ahead of Yanga, with only two fixtures remaining for both teams.
A victory for Simba would significantly bolster their chances of securing the championship, while a win for Yanga could see them leapfrog their rivals and take control of the title destiny.
With so much at stake, the football world in Tanzania eagerly awaits to see if the Kariakoo Derby will indeed go ahead as planned, or if Yanga’s protest will lead to further complications in the league.