Yanga, Azam FC set for epic Community Shield showdown

Dar es Salaam. Football fans, get ready for an electrifying night as Tanzanian giants Young Africans (Yanga) and Azam FC gear up to clash in what promises to be a pulsating Community Shield final on August 11, 2024, at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

The showdown is set for 7pm, and all eyes will be on the pitch as these two powerhouses go head-to-head in a battle for supremacy.

Before the grand finale, the action kicks off at 3pm with a thrilling third-place playoff between Simba and Coastal Union at the same venue.

But the main event, the match everyone’s been waiting for, will see Yanga and Azam FC, both coming off impressive semifinal wins, lock horns in a game that could set the tone for the entire season.

Azam FC punched their ticket to the final with an explosive 5-2 victory over Coastal Union in Zanzibar, showcasing their attacking prowess and determination.

Meanwhile, Yanga showed their resilience by knocking out their fiercest rivals, Simba, with a hard-fought 1-0 victory in Dar es Salaam, sending their fans into a frenzy.

This upcoming final will mark the 38th encounter between these two sides across all competitions, including the Mainland Tanzania Premier League, CRDB Federation Cup, and Cecafa Kagame Cup.

Yanga hold a slight advantage historically, having won 17 of their previous meetings, while Azam FC have claimed victory in 10, with the remaining 10 matches ending in draws.

However, past records will count for little when these teams step onto the pitch on Sunday.

The last time these teams met, Yanga emerged victorious in a nail-biting CRDB Federation Cup final, winning 6-5 on penalties in Zanzibar. But this time, Azam FC’s head coach, Bruno Ferry, is determined to rewrite the script.

The French tactician has his team in top form, and he's made it clear that Azam FC are coming for revenge.

"We respect Yanga, but we’re not intimidated. We’re focused on winning the Community Shield and making our fans proud," Ferry declared.

On the other side, Yanga’s Argentine head coach, Miguel Gamondi, is equally confident. Gamondi’s mission is clear: add another trophy to Yanga’s illustrious cabinet.

"Azam FC are formidable opponent, but we’re ready. Our players are in high spirits, and our goal is simple to win," said Gamondi, promising fans a performance to remember.

With both teams fired up and hungry for victory, the stage is set for a footballing spectacle.

The Benjamin Mkapa Stadium will be buzzing with energy as thousands of passionate fans from both sides pack the stands, creating an atmosphere that only adds to the drama on the field.

This match isn’t just about a trophy; it’s about pride, bragging rights, and setting the tone for the season ahead.

Will Yanga continue their dominance, or will Azam FC rise to the occasion and claim the Community Shield? One thing’s for sure, this is a match you won’t want to miss.

Get ready for 90 minutes of pure football excitement as Yanga and Azam FC go all out in what promises to be one of the most thrilling matches of the year!