The stage is set for the most anticipated fixture in Tanzanian football—Young Africans SC (Yanga) will face archrivals Simba SC in the Kariakoo Derby, a clash that will not only determine bragging rights but also decide the 2024/25 Tanzania Premier League title.
In a landmark decision, this year’s derby will be officiated by a team of top-tier Egyptian referees, bringing international prestige and neutrality to a match of monumental importance.
Match Context
As the final game of the season approaches:
- Yanga leads the Premier League with 79 points.
- Simba closely trails with 78 points.
This means
- A draw is all Yanga needs to seal a fourth consecutive league title.
- Simba must win to reclaim the championship they last won in the 2020–21 season.
The match is scheduled for June 25, 2025, at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
Officiating Team from Egypt
To ensure fairness and reduce tension, the Tanzania Betsure Sports Football Federation appointed a seasoned Egyptian officiating crew for this crucial fixture. The decision reflects a commitment to maintaining integrity and neutrality in what is undoubtedly the most critical match of the Tanzanian Premier League season. Given the stakes and the passionate fan bases of both Yanga and Simba, the federation sought to eliminate any room for controversy by bringing in a reputable team of officials from outside the country.
The officiating team will be led by Center Referee Amin Mohamed Amin Omar, a highly respected figure in African football circles. He will be supported by two experienced assistant referees, Mahmoud Ahmed Abo El Regal and Samir Gamal Sad Mohamed, while Ahmed Mahrous El Ghandour will serve as the fourth official. This crew is known for its consistency, professionalism, and ability to manage high-intensity matches with composure and authority.
Additionally, the match will be assessed by Alli Mohamed from Somalia, while Salim Omar Singano from Tanzania will act as match commissioner. Amin Omar, in particular, is no stranger to African football and has previously handled high-pressure matches in CAF competitions, including games involving both Yanga and Simba. His experience brings a level of calm and assurance to what promises to be a fiery atmosphere, ensuring that the game is decided by the players and not the whistle.
A Long-Awaited Showdown
This Kariakoo Derby was delayed multiple times throughout the season due to logistical and administrative disagreements. But that delay has only heightened anticipation and intensified preparations from both camps. Fans have been eagerly waiting for the fixture, with each postponement adding to the tension and excitement surrounding the match. The clubs have used the extended wait to fine-tune their strategies, analyze their opponents, and rally their supporters for what promises to be an unforgettable encounter.
With the title hanging in the balance, this edition of the derby is arguably the most important in recent history. Every tackle, every pass, and every decision will carry the weight of a championship outcome. It’s not just a rivalry match—it’s a potential title decider between two of Tanzania’s greatest football institutions. For the players, the technical benches, and the fans, this is more than a game—it’s a defining moment that could shape the legacy of an entire season.
Why Egyptian Referees?
The decision to import foreign referees reflects growing professionalism in Tanzanian football. The Federation aims to:
- Ensure unbiased officiating.
- Increase credibility and transparency in critical fixtures.
- Reduce pressure on local referees in high-stakes matches.
It’s a bold move that shows the seriousness with which this game is being treated, both locally and continentally.
🔥 Final Thoughts
Everything is on the line in this Kariakoo Derby: the league title, city dominance, pride, and legacy. With Egyptian referees bringing neutrality and professionalism to the field, fans can expect a fair and competitive match.
Will Yanga complete their reign with a fourth straight title, or will Simba rise heroically to snatch victory and glory at the death?
June 25 is not just a match—it’s a battle for history. Visit us, Betsure.
