We pushed, we delivered – Hamdi

DAR ES SALAAM: YANGA Head Coach Miloud Hamdi has said his side’s victory over Simba in the decisive Dar es Salaam Derby  which sealed the 2024/25 Mainland Premier League title was the result of six months of hard work, detailed preparation and firm discipline from both players and technical staff.

Speaking shortly after his side was crowned champions at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Hamdi praised his squad for executing the game plan and giving everything on the pitch when it mattered most.

“I am very happy because we have fought for all these months and won it. Before the game, I told the players we have 90 minutes to give our best. At half-time, I reminded them its 45 minutes to become champions — and we did it,” said Hamdi.

He commended the team for their focus, commitment and ability to carry out instructions, insisting their consistent effort in training and matches made the difference.

“Believe me; we are very tired today because we worked very hard. No one knows how hard we pushed technically, tactically and physically. But today, the players showed great football and we are champions,” he said.

Hamdi also reserved praise for the club’s fans and members, whose passionate support played a key role in driving the team forward.

“Bravo to my players and thank you to the fans. I’m very happy for all the fans who came in large numbers. This title is for everyone who supports Young Africans,” he added.

His counterpart, Simba coach Fadlu Davids was quick to congratulate Yanga for clinching the title, admitting his opponents displayed greater composure.

“Well done to Yanga. I think their players showed greater temperament and that made the difference. Yanga have a big influence both on and off the field,” said Fadlu.

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Reflecting on his own team, Fadlu pointed to off-pitch issues that affected their campaign and stressed the need for a clear direction ahead of the new season.

“We have to sit down with the management and see whether the club’s ambition matches mine. We need to strengthen the squad and bring in more players with big-match experience,” he said.

Fadlu revealed that he only made three signings during the season Mpanzu, Kamara, and Ateba and believes the club needs to make more strategic additions.

He also thanked Simba President Mohammed Dewji for his continued support, despite internal challenges.

“A big thank you to our President, Mo Dewji. He has great vision, but there have been obstacles. The fans have also been amazing from day one I stepped in,” Fadlu added.

He concluded by saying Simba had overachieved considering the squad’s composition, but that the foundation laid this season must now be built upon with intent.

The curtain may have fallen on the campaign, but the rewards were only just beginning. Yanga, the newly crowned champions, not only took home the title but also pocketed a handsome 650m/- in prize money.

Runners-up Simba were awarded 300m/- , while third-placed Azam FC received 250m/-. Singida Big Stars, who finished fourth, earned 200m/- , with Tabora United rounding out the top five with 100m/-.

The financial windfall continued: JKT Tanzania (6th) received 90m/-, Mashujaa (7th) took 80m/-, Coastal Union (8th) got 70m/-, Namungo (9th) earned 60m/-, and KMC (10th) secured 50m/-.

Pamba Jiji, Dodoma Jiji, Tanzania Prisons, and Fountain Gate who finished 11th to 14th respectively  shared a combined 150m/- in descending order.

However, relegated sides Kagera Sugar and KenGold walked away empty-handed, with relegation as their only reward.