Yanga, Simba may face off in Union Cup

Dar es Salaam. Traditional rivals Young Africans (Yanga) and Simba may meet in this year’s Union Cup, scheduled to take place from April 21 to 27 in Zanzibar.

Apart from Yanga and Simba, other teams invited to compete in the tournament include Azam FC and Coastal Union from Tanzania Mainland. Zanzibar will be represented by KMKM, KVZ, JKU, and Zimamoto.

Zanzibar Football Federation (ZFF) secretary general Hussein Ahmada Vuai told The Citizen today, April 2, 2025, that the tournament will follow a knockout format.

He confirmed that all invited teams have been informed and have confirmed their participation.

“We are now in the final stages of preparation ahead of the tournament. All teams have been informed and have confirmed their participation. We are expecting an exciting competition,” said Vuai.

He further stated that they are working on increasing the prize money and are in final negotiations with various sponsors.

“In the last tournament, the champions were awarded Sh50 million, while the runners-up received Sh30 million. This year, we plan to increase the prize money,” he said.

The Union Cup was first introduced in 1982 with the aim of strengthening the Union between Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar, which marks its 60th anniversary this year, having been formed on April 26, 1964.

The competition was also designed to ensure equal representation of clubs from both regions in international club tournaments. 

Over the years, it has provided a platform for teams to showcase their talents and compete at a high level.

The tournament was held for 21 consecutive years, with nine different teams winning the title.

However, it faced interruptions due to various logistical and financial challenges. 

This year’s edition aims to revive the rich history of the competition and enhance football relations between the two regions.

The Union Cup has historically been a prestigious competition, attracting top teams and showcasing intense rivalries, especially between Yanga and Simba. 

If the two teams meet, it will add excitement for football fans across Tanzania.

Football analysts believe the tournament will provide a competitive platform for clubs to test their squads ahead of their respective domestic and international campaigns.

It will also serve as an opportunity for scouts and stakeholders to identify emerging talents.

Fans from both Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar are eagerly anticipating the return of the tournament, with expectations of thrilling encounters and outstanding performances from participating teams.

As the tournament draws closer, final preparations are underway to ensure a successful event. Organizers are committed to delivering a well-structured and competitive championship that will uphold the spirit of the Union Cup and celebrate the unity between Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar.

With the promise of increased prize money, strong competition, and the possibility of a Yanga vs. Simba showdown, the 2025 Union Cup is set to be an exciting football spectacle.