Simba, Yanga clash in highly billed ‘Kariakoo Derby’

• Yanga are the current leaders of the Tanzanian Premier League
• Simba won the last time the two sides meet
• Tickets for the match were sold out days before the game

Giants Simba SC and Yanga SC will clash in the Kariakoo Derby in Dar es Salaam, the biggest and most intensive fixture of the Tanzanian Premier League.

The two sides meet high on form, Yanga leading the standings after seven rounds of matches with 18 points, same as Simba who have however played a match less.

Simba SC are looking to keep their unbeaten run in the Premier League. Wekundu Wa Msimbazi are unbeaten in the Premier League this season with six wins in six matches, and they are keen to make that seven and move back top of the standings.

Head coach Roberto Oliveira, recently named coach of the month of October, says his side is looking to bring in some beautiful football to not only win but dazzle the fans as well.

“We have modeled a good plan for the derby because every match has its own different approach. I am looking forward to a good display and I have faith in the abilities of my players. Everyone given a chance will do the jersey proud,” the coach said.

He added; “We want to make our fans happy and the best way to do that is to give them victory. That is our objective.”

His sentiments are shared by right back Shomari Kapombe who says they have prepared to get a win over their arch rivals.

Determined for a good show 

Simba players training before the Kariakoo Derby.

“As players we are determined to show a good level of football and get a win in the derby. We respect our rivals because they have also shown good levels in all their competitions and we know it is not going to be an easy match,” Kapombe said.

Meanwhile, Yanga’s head coach Miguel Gamondi hopes he will have the last laugh as he leads Yanga in his first league Kariakoo Derby. Gamondi has already led Yanga in the derby, but it was the season opening Community Shield which Simba won on penalties after a draw in regulation time.

“You can look at it both ways. Simba has also not beaten me in open play. For me, this is bigger than me or anyone, it is about the team and we will go there to get a win for the team,” the Argentine tactician said.

Gamondi says his players have prepared well and is optimistic they will come off winners in the tie expected to be explosive.

Waiting for explosive tie 

Yanga players training before the Kariakoo Derby.

“We have worked really well this week in training and I am happy with the job the players have done in training. I trust in them that they will deliver in the match. It will be a different game from that in the Cup because these are new conditions and new demands so definitely we will come in with a different approach,” he added.

He has also moved to ease pressure off his players’ shoulders ahead of the game, saying it is just a game like any other where the hunt centres around three points.

“For me the most important is the three points. If we win, we are sure of remaining on top of the table even if Simba have one game in hand. It is important just like any other game we play because of the three points,” added the tactician.