YOUNG Africans Sports Club (Yanga) have safely arrived in Zanzibar from Dar es Salaam as they step up preparations for their much anticipated Premier League derby clash against arch rivals Simba Sports Club.

The Dar es Salaam Derby, one of the most fiercely contested fixtures in Tanzanian football, is scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 1, at the New Amaan Complex. The encounter is expected to draw massive attention from fans across the country, with both sides eager to assert dominance in the title race. 

Young Africans’ early arrival in the Isles is part of their final phase of preparations, with the team set to spend three days fine tuning tactics and sharpening match fitness ahead of the blockbuster showdown. The technical bench is keen to ensure the squad enters the contest in peak competitive condition as they seek to maintain their impressive run of form.

 The derby, famously dubbed Dar es Salaam Derby due to the historic rivalry between the two Dar es Salaam giants, carries added significance this season as both teams are firmly in the hunt for the Premier League title. The match has also been branded “Damaro Day” by the club, underscoring the magnitude of the occasion.

 Young Africans’ information and communications manager, Ali Kamwe (pictured), has urged the club’s supporters to secure their tickets early to avoid last minute inconveniences. Speaking ahead of the clash, Kamwe emphasized the high demand expected for the fixture and encouraged fans to fill the New Amaan Complex to capacity.

 “We anticipate huge interest in this match because of its importance and the history between the two clubs. We urge our supporters to purchase tickets in advance to avoid disappointment on match day,” Kamwe said.

 He added that strong fan presence could provide the much needed psychological boost for the players as they seek maximum points against their traditional rivals. According to Kamwe, the backing of the “Wananchi” faithful has always played a crucial role in motivating the team during crucial fixtures.

 Young Africans head into the derby brimming with confidence following a string of convincing performances in both domestic and continental competitions. The defending champions recently secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria’s JS Kabylie in the CAF Champions League, a result that underlined their growing strength on the continental stage.

 Domestically, the Jangwani Street-based outfit edged Namungo FC 1-0 in a tightly contested league encounter before producing a statement performance with a resounding 5-0 triumph over JKT Tanzania. The emphatic win served as a clear warning to their rivals ahead of the derby showdown.

 These results have propelled Young Africans to the summit of the  Premier League standings. After 10 matches, the league leaders have amassed an impressive 28 points, winning nine games and drawing just once. Their unbeaten record so far reflects both consistency and determination as they push to defend their title.

 With momentum firmly on their side, Young Africans will be looking to carry that form into Sunday’s clash. However, derby matches often defy current standings, as pride and history add an extra layer of intensity beyond league points.

 Simba, equally determined to close the gap at the top, are expected to pose a stern test. The New Amaan Complex is set to host a vibrant atmosphere as fans from both camps converge for what promises to be another thrilling chapter in Tanzanian football’s biggest rivalry.

 As the countdown continues, all eyes will be on Zanzibar this weekend, where the Dar es Salaam giants will once again battle for supremacy in a match that could have significant implications for the title race.