NBC adds spark to Kariakoo Derby as Simba’s Mpanzu claims Player of the Match award

DAR ES SALAAM: Simba SC claimed a hard-fought 2–1 victory over arch-rivals Yanga SC in a pulsating Kariakoo Derby at Uhuru Stadium yesterday, with Simba striker Elie Mpanzu earning the Player of the Match award in a fixture that once again showcased the passion, rivalry and excitement of Tanzanian football.

The highly anticipated NBC Premier League encounter attracted thousands of fans to the stadium, while millions more followed the action through live television broadcasts. Beyond the fierce competition on the pitch, the derby was enhanced by a series of activities organised by National Bank of Commerce (NBC), the league’s title sponsor, to celebrate the game and bring fans closer to the action.

Mpanzu was among the standout performers in the eagerly awaited clash, earning recognition for his contribution as Simba secured bragging rights against their traditional rivals. NBC Director of Retail Banking, Elibariki Masuke, presented him with the Player of the Match award in recognition of his performance.

The award presentation added to the occasion, highlighting individual excellence in a fixture where the stakes extend beyond the three points, given the historic rivalry between the two clubs and the passionate following they command across Tanzania.

In addition to the on-field spectacle, NBC enhanced the match-day experience for some of its customers by organising a special convoy to Uhuru Stadium, where they watched the derby from the VIP stand.

The initiative gives the selected customers an opportunity to experience the atmosphere of one of Tanzania’s most anticipated football matches from an exclusive vantage point.

NBC also provided banking services at the stadium, including account-opening facilities and financial advice, allowing fans and other attendees to access the bank’s services as they enjoyed the football action.

Speaking during the event, Masuke said NBC’s involvement in the derby reflects its commitment to making football more engaging for supporters while strengthening its relationship with customers and other stakeholders in the sport.

“Our sponsorship goes beyond improving the leagues we support. It is also about ensuring that our stakeholders, including employees, leaders and customers, become active participants in the game. We want football to be an experience, not just a 90-minute event,” he said.

Masuke added that NBC continues to pursue initiatives aimed at strengthening the NBC Premier League, nurturing emerging talent, raising competitive standards and expanding the opportunities created by football across the country.

Through its continued sponsorship of the league, NBC has supported initiatives aimed at improving the football environment, including access to financial services for clubs, health insurance and transport financing for teams, as well as trophy presentations and football awards.

The Kariakoo Derby remains one of the highlights of Tanzania’s domestic football calendar, bringing together two of the country’s most successful and widely supported clubs. With passionate supporters, intense competition and individual performances taking centre stage, the fixture continues to demonstrate the power of football to unite communities and capture the nation’s attention.

For NBC, the occasion provided another opportunity to celebrate the game, recognise outstanding performances and reinforce its commitment to the continued growth of Tanzanian football.