Respect defines Dar derby clash

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Dar Derby takes place today at Major General Isamuhyo Stadium, with both Simba and Young Africans coaches stressing the respect they have for each other ahead of the crucial encounter.

Despite the measured tone from both camps, the significance of the match has not been downplayed. Each side has described the fixture as pivotal in shaping the destiation of this season’s title, with Young Africans currently leading the table on 47 points, five clear of their rivals.

Victory for Young Africans would extend their advantage to eight points, putting them in a commanding position with only ten matches remaining. Simba, however, knows that a win would cut the gap to two points and firmly reopen the title race.

With the season entering its decisive phase, both teams are aware that the result could prove defining. Beyond local bragging rights, the derby carries major implications for the championship, as two of Tanzania’s biggest clubs meet in a contest that could shape the remainder of the campaign.

Before the clash, Simba Head Coach Steve Barker acknowledged the strength of his side’s arch-rivals but made it clear his team remain focused on victory.

“Respect is there for Young Africans. They are among the teams that have conceded the fewest goals in the league and have a very strong defence. But our objective is to score against them and win,” Barker said.

Barker also dismissed concerns over the Isamuhyo playing surface, insisting his players are well accustomed to such conditions.

“We have experience playing on similar pitches and have performed well. There is no concern on our side,” he added.

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.

Young Africans Head Coach Pedro Goncalves said his squad had benefited from three crucial days of preparation and would approach the derby with a fresh tactical plan.

“This is a different competition and we must approach it differently from the last game.

“We are playing one of the biggest teams in the country, so concentration is key. In the previous match, we were punished for losing focus in the final minutes,” Goncalves said.

He added, “We believe we will perform better this time and secure three important points. With our fans behind us, we are confident and ready to fight to extend the gap at the top.”

According to Tanzania Premier League Board Information Officer Karim Boimanda, the match will be officiated by Moroccan referee Hamza El Fareq, assisted by Lahsen Agaou and Hamza Massiri.

Ahead of the match, Simba’s Media and Communication Manager, Ahmed Ally, 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.

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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.