Yanga, Simba set to renew rivalry in Saturday’s derby

Dar es Salaam. Football fans across Tanzania and neighbouring countries will once again witness one of the most anticipated fixtures in Tanzanian football history as Young Africans (Yanga) host their arch-rivals, Simba SC, on Saturday at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

This clash holds special significance, marking exactly five years since Yanga secured a memorable 1-0 victory over Simba on March 8, 2020, in the Mainland Premier League. 

In a twist of fate, the upcoming fixture mirrors the 2020 encounter in many ways.

Yanga will be the home team, just as they were in 2020, and the match will take place at the same iconic venue on the same date.

However, some differences set this year’s derby apart—while the 2020 match was played on a Sunday at 5pm, this year’s fixture falls on a Saturday and will kick off at 7:15pm.

A day to remember: Morrison’s impact in 2020

March 8, 2020, remains a cherished memory for Yanga fans, thanks to a stunning goal from Ghanaian forward Bernard Morrison. 

Playing in his first-ever Kariakoo Derby since joining Yanga, Morrison scored the decisive goal that secured a crucial victory over their bitter rivals. 

His powerful free-kick in the 44th minute from just outside the penalty area sealed Yanga’s triumph. 

Morrison’s energetic performance and match-winning strike cemented his place in Yanga folklore, making the upcoming match a sentimental event for fans. 

Following his successful stint at Yanga, Morrison made a controversial switch to Simba after the 2020/2021 season, where he spent two seasons before making a sensational return to Yanga. 

However, he will not feature in this year’s derby, as he joined KenGold FC during the mid-season transfer window.

The stakes for the 2025 derby

With both teams currently vying for the Mainland Premier League title, the March 8 showdown is expected to be a high-stakes affair.

Yanga will aim to replicate their historic triumph from 2020, while Simba will seek redemption and a chance to assert their dominance. 

The match will also serve as a crucial test of form and character for both sides as they continue their pursuit of domestic and continental glory.

A fixture steeped in history and rivalry

The Yanga-Simba rivalry is one of the fiercest and most celebrated in African football, attracting thousands of fans to the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium and millions of viewers across the continent. 

With its striking similarities to the 2020 fixture, the 2025 edition promises to be an emotional and thrilling encounter that will be etched in the memories of Tanzanian football fans for years to come. 

As the countdown to March 8 continues, anticipation is building among fans and stakeholders alike, with expectations running high for yet another unforgettable chapter in the Yanga-Simba rivalry.