YOUNG Africans head coach Miguel Gamondi has dismissed his team’s favourites tag in the Dar Derby as they lock horns with arch-rivals Simba in the Community Shield at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium this evening.

The Premier League defending champions boast a strong win record in recent derby games, having beaten their rivals in all of their last two meetings.

Gamondi's side will once again start as favourites, but they will face a tricky challenge from their rivals, who look like a different unit under head coach Fadlu Davids.

Gamondi (pictured), who attended the pre-match press conference alongside third-choice goalkeeper Abubakar Khomein, said he would treat the derby like any other game. The Argentine coach also spoke about his side’s chances in the derby, playing in front of fans, and more.

“I won’t speculate what happened last season. This is a new season, even Simba have a new technical bench and new players. It is totally different, and we need to see what will happen tomorrow, but we arrived in good condition, physically and tactically well.

“We are happy to start a new season, and there is nothing better than starting with a derby. For us, it is very good, especially to play in front of a big crowd. For sure, tomorrow will be a full house, and for us, it will be extra motivation as well.

“I respect all the opponents. Simba is a derby match; both teams will never be underdogs because it is a special day. Simba have a new coach and new players, and they need to show up with motivation like us.

“At the beginning, it is always 50/50, and we will approach the game like that. Sometimes we say winning is not the best thing for you, but you must keep your feet on the ground and stay humble. This is our mindset,” he said.

Gamondi also acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Simba’s approach due to their revamped squad and the lack of broadcasted friendly matches.

“We are not sure how Simba will approach the match as they have changed their squad. Our friendly matches in South Africa were broadcasted, but Simba’s were not. Regardless, we prepare our squad diligently because there are no secrets in football. Our goal is to minimize mistakes and perform our best,” he added.

He emphasized the role of his players in delivering a strong performance. “As a coach and technical bench, we plan and prepare, but in the 90 minutes, it is up to the players to show what they have learned in training. We will play our style of football, and Simba will play theirs. It will be a tough match because every game is different.”

The Community Shield tournament heralds the beginning of the 2024/25 Premier League season, set to commence on August 16. This season promises to be a dynamic and inclusive competition, offering an exciting new chapter for Tanzanian football.

The Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) has appointed referee Elly Sasii to oversee the semi-final match between Simba and Young Africans. He will be assisted by Mohammed Mkono and Kassim Mpanga, with Amina Kyando serving as the reserve referee.

In addition to this high-stakes derby, the other semi-final will see Coastal Union face Azam FC at the New Aman Complex Stadium in Zanzibar at 4:00 PM. The winners of these semi-finals will compete in the final match, scheduled to take place at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on August 11.

As both teams gear up for this crucial encounter, fans are eagerly anticipating a match that promises to be filled with passion, skill, and intense rivalry. The Community Shield semi-final between Young Africans and Simba is more than just a game; it is a celebration of Tanzanian football and its rich history of fierce competition.