Joseph Isangura
The Tanzania Premier League Board (TPLB) has officially released an updated fixture list to wrap up the 2024/2025 season, with the highly anticipated clash between Young Africans SC (Yanga) and Simba SC now scheduled for June 15, 2025.
The match, known as the Kariakoo Derby, was initially set to take place on March 8 but was postponed due to administrative disputes and claims of unfair treatment. Tensions rose after Simba was reportedly denied access to Benjamin Mkapa Stadium ahead of the original fixture, sparking a wave of criticism and legal threats from both camps.
In response to the postponement, Yanga sought legal arbitration by appealing to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The club requested that the match be awarded to them by default, citing procedural errors and unequal treatment. However, CAS dismissed the appeal on the grounds that Yanga had not exhausted local dispute mechanisms before turning to international courts.
Despite the new fixture date being set, Yanga’s participation remains unclear. The club has voiced dissatisfaction with both the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) and TPLB, accusing both bodies of mishandling the situation and demonstrating bias. Club representatives have warned that they may refuse to honor the match, citing concerns over fairness and due process.
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The TPLB, however, remains firm. In an official statement, the board reiterated its commitment to ensuring the match proceeds as planned. League officials emphasized that the revised schedule had considered all critical logistical elements, including team readiness and venue availability.
This high-stakes encounter is more than just a football match; it is a national event that captures the spirit and intensity of Tanzanian sport. The derby regularly draws tens of thousands to the stadium and commands a massive television audience across East Africa.
With league standings hanging in the balance and pride on the line, the uncertainty surrounding Yanga’s participation has created widespread anticipation. As June 15 draws nearer, the question remains—will Yanga show up, or will this season’s most anticipated match end in forfeit?
Either outcome could shape the narrative of this football season and leave a lasting mark on the governance of sports in Tanzania.
