Yanga, Simba SC now set for Premier League title decider
Young Africans (Yanga) attacking midfielder Clatous Chama (left) vies for the ball with Dodoma Jiji FC player Joash Onyango during their league match at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar on June 22, 2025. Yanga won 5-0. PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
The derby, often dubbed the biggest fixture in Tanzanian football, has gained even more significance after both clubs secured crucial wins in their respective league matches played on June 22, 2025 in different venues
Dar es Salaam. The long-awaited Mainland Tanzania Premier League title winner will be decided on Wednesday when traditional rivals Young Africans (Yanga) and Simba SC face off in the decisive encounter.
The derby, often dubbed the biggest fixture in Tanzanian football, has gained even more significance after both clubs secured crucial wins in their respective league matches played on June 22, 2025 in different venues.
Defending champions Yanga thrashed Dodoma Jiji FC 5-0 at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar, reaffirming their dominance in the league. Goals came from Clatous Chama, Duke Abuya, Ibrahim Bacca, Maxi Nzengeli, and an own goal by Joash Onyango of Dodoma Jiji FC.
Simba, on the other hand, narrowly defeated already-relegated Kagera Sugar 1-0 at the KMC Complex in Dar es Salaam, with the lone goal of the match coming from Ugandan striker Steven Mukwala.
Following these results, Yanga now lead the standings with 79 points from 29 matches, while Simba sit second with 78 points from the same number of games.
This means Wednesday’s match at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium will determine the 2024/2025 league champion. Yanga only need a draw to clinch their fourth consecutive league title, while Simba must win the match to reclaim the crown they last won three seasons ago.
The stakes could not be higher, and both teams will be under immense pressure to deliver in front of thousands of passionate supporters.
Beyond the championship itself, the match will also influence the outcome of the Golden Boot race. Five players—three from Simba and two from Yanga—are battling for the league’s top scorer award.
Jean Ahoua of Simba currently leads the scoring chart with 16 goals.
He is closely followed by teammates Leonel Ateba and Steven Mukwala, both with 13 goals. Yanga’s forward duo, Clement Mzize and Prince Dube, are also tied at 13 goals each.
The Wednesday showdown may, therefore, not only crown a league champion but also determine who takes home the Golden Boot—making the clash even more thrilling and meaningful for fans and players alike.
Meanwhile, the relegation picture has become clearer following Sunday’s results.
Fountain Gate FC and Tanzania Prisons are now confirmed to feature in the relegation playoff.
The two clubs will face each other, and the winner will secure a place in next season’s Premier League.
The loser of that match will then have a second chance to retain their top-flight status by facing Championship Division side Stand United.
