All fit for Dar Derby clash

DAR S SALAAM: SIMBA SC and Young Africans have both confirmed that their squads are fully fit ahead of tomorrow’s Mainland Premier League derby at Major General Isamuhyo Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

Simba SC Media and Communications Manager Ahmed Ally confirmed to the press in Dar es Salaam that Ancient Oura, Nickson Kibabage and Yusufu Kagoma are all fit for selection after recovering from injuries sustained in the Union Cup final against Young Africans SC on Wednesday.

“All our Simba players are fit for the game, including those who picked up injuries during the Union Cup final match against Young Africans. I am here to confirm all three and the rest of the first-team players are ready for the Dar es Salaam Derby,” said Ally.

The two giants meet for the third time in just two months, underlining the intensity of their rivalry this season. Their first encounter on March 1st ended in a goalless draw at New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar, before Simba SC edged their rivals 1-0 in their most recent meeting last Wednesday in the Union Cup at the same venue.

Tomorrow’s clash is expected to carry even greater weight, with both sides locked in a tight title race. Simba currently sit second with 42 points from 19 matches, while Young Africans lead with 47 points from the same number of games. MAY 2, 2026 With only eleven matches remaining, the derby could prove decisive in shaping the championship battle.

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Ally stressed the importance of securing maximum points, describing the fixture as a “must-win” encounter for Simba as they look to close the five-point gap at the top of the table.

For Young Africans SC, Team Manager Walter Harson has reassured fans that the squad is in top condition ahead of tomorrow’s highly anticipated clash, confirming that no injuries were reported from the match. Insisting all players are fit and ready to take on their rivals in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.

“We have no injury concerns following the Union Cup final,” Harson said. “After Wednesday’s match, the team returned to camp for recovery and everyone is progressing well. We have put that defeat behind us and are fully focused on our league ambitions.

The players’ morale is high and they are eager to perform at their best tomorrow.” Harson emphasised the team’s readiness for the derby, stating that despite the setback in the Union Cup, the squad remains motivated and determined to continue their strong push for the league title.

Ahead of the match, Simba have announced ticket prices as follows: Round seats at 15,000/-, VIP B at 30,000/- and VIP A at 50,000/-.

Supporters without membership cards will be required to purchase one for 2,000/-. Fans have been urged to purchase tickets early to avoid lastminute congestion. Ally issued a stern warning against attempts to resell tickets at inflated prices, confirming that the club is working closely with ticketing partner N-Card to curb malpractice.

Ticket sales will be available at multiple outlets, including Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Lampard Electronics, TFF Karume, Simba SC offices in Masaki, Mtembe Electronics, Magufuli Bus Station and the Ferry terminal.

The stadium capacity has also been increased from 8,000 to 10,000 seats, with a newly added 2,000-seat section expected to accommodate more fans for the derby. Ally further appealed to supporters to maintain discipline during the match, urging them to avoid throwing bottles or engaging in any form of violence that could damage the club’s reputation.