Yanga claim fourth straight title

DAR ES SALAAM: DAR ES SALAAM was awash with yellow and green yesterday as Young Africans clinched their fourth consecutive Mainland Premier League title with a commanding 2-0 victory over fierce rivals Simba at the iconic Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

The highly anticipated clash lived up to its billing, and it was second-half strikes from Pacôme Zouzoua and Clement Mzize that sealed the triumph, sparking jubilant celebrations across the city.

With the win, Young Africans secured the championship with an impressive tally of 82 points, narrowly edging out Simba, who finish with 78 points.

Following the club’s success, President Samia Suluhu Hassan has extended her warm congratulations to Young Africans following their triumph in securing a record 31st Mainland Premier League title — marking their fourth consecutive championship.

In a statement shared on her official Instagram account, the President praised the team’s consistency and success, which she described as a proud moment for the club and its supporters.

“For over 85 years, the rivalry between Yanga and Simba has continued to provide entertainment for millions of fans, both at home and abroad,” President Samia noted.

“Congratulations to Yanga for winning their 31st league title and their fourth in a row. Continue giving us the entertainment.”

Her remarks underline the cultural significance of the nation’s most celebrated football rivalry and the role of sport in uniting Tanzanians.

This season unfolded as a classic two-horse race, with the rest of the league struggling to keep pace.

Azam finished third, a distant 15 points behind with 63, while Singida Black Stars claimed fourth with 57.

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But on this decisive day, all eyes were on the titanic clash in Dar es Salaam, where the passion, pressure and pride of two great footballing giants met—and it was Young Africans who emerged triumphant, painting the city in their colours.

The Dar Derby proved to be a fierce and finely balanced contest, characterised by an intense midfield battle where both sides fought relentlessly for control.

Players were locked in a series of challenges, constantly pressing, intercepting and attempting to win back possession at every turn. Mistakes were rare and costly, with each error threatening to tip the balance.

The full-backs and wingers were heavily involved, adding width and pace to the encounter, while tackles flew in throughout—each one raising the stakes further.

It was a physically demanding affair that brought the match to life, a true reflection of what was at stake.

Although clear-cut chances were few and far between, the match never lacked intensity. With the league title hanging in the balance, every pass, run and decision carried weight.

The referees were notably alert, allowing the game to flow while remaining vigilant against any potential infractions—no off sides missed, no unnecessary fouls overlooked.

Players pushed hard, toeing the line between aggression and control, knowing full well that any lapse in discipline could be decisive.

It was a tactical and physical duel, full of tension and urgency, and while the score line may not have reflected it, the heat of the contest never wavered.

The second half ignited with high drama as Simba turned up the heat, creating two golden opportunities through Elie Mpanzu and Jean Charles Ahoua.

Mpanzu came agonisingly close to breaking the deadlock with a thunderous strike from outside the box, only to be denied by the woodwork in what would have been a sensational goal.

But the Young Africans were not about to fold under pressure.

In a swift and clinical counter-attack, Pacome Zouzoua surged into the box and won a contested ball just ahead of the onrushing Moussa Camara.

The Simba goalkeeper’s challenge was mistimed, prompting the referee to point to the spot without hesitation.

With nerves of steel, Pacome stepped up and coolly slotted home the penalty in the 63rd minute, sending the fans into raptures.

As the clock ticked down and Simba pushed forward in search of an equaliser, they were caught out again.

This time, it was Clement Mzize who found the back of the net, doubling the Young Africans’ lead with a composed finish following a perfectly timed assist from Pacome.