Simba ready for Kariakoo derby despite Yanga withdrawal threat

The Red Lions of Msimbazi released the statement a day after Young Africans (Yanga SC) had revealed their stance on the fixture, declaring that they will not participate in the match.

They stated that they will not attend the fixture unless certain key demands are met by the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) and the Tanzania Premier League Board (TPLB), which allegedly included unpaid prizemoney.

However, the TFF has refuted one of the claims of outstanding 2023/24 prizemoney that is owed to Yanga, stating that it is actually Young Africans that owes TFF.

The original fixture was postponed after Simba SC claimed they were not allowed to use the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium for their pre-match training session.

The Fadlu Davids coached team encouraged its supporters to fill the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium for the Dar es Salaam derby, assuring them that the much-anticipated clash would go ahead.

"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 club statement.

"We advise our fans not to be distracted by outside noise. Those who purchased tickets for the original March 8, 2025, fixture, which was postponed, should hold on to them as they will remain valid.

"For those who have not yet bought tickets, we encourage you to be ready to purchase them as soon as the League Board announces the resumption of ticket sales."

According to the Citizen, Yanga's refusal has led to a situation where they are at risk of a Sh600 million ($230 500) penalty and may be forced to play the rescheduled match, that was initially set for March 8.

The result of the derby could decide the Tanzanian Premier League title's destination, with The Citizens currently top of the table, one point above Simba, with two fixtures left to play for both teams.