THE Dar es Salaam derby is set to explode with passion in Dar es Salaam on Saturday as Young Africans SC calls upon the squad's supporters to paint the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in its colours.

The stakes are high as Young Africans SC, alias Yanga, locks horns with Simba SC in a fierce battle for NBC Premier League supremacy.

Currently boasting a commanding nine-point lead in the NBC Premier League standings, Yanga is determined to secure the third consecutive league title.

Ally Kamwe, Yanga's Information, and Communication Manager, emphasized the critical role fans play in the team’s success, saying: “Our fans and members are incredibly important in this game. We need them to fill the stadium and create an electric atmosphere. This is a chance to make the day truly unforgettable and leave Simba SC’s supporters outnumbered.”

Kamwe cautioned fans against complacency, despite Simba SC’s recent struggles. “While Simba SC hasn’t won in four matches, we can’t afford to underestimate them. They possess experienced players who thrive in high-pressure derbies. We need a ruthless mentality to secure victory,” he declared.

The official also addressed injury concerns in Yanga, revealing that key players Kennedy Musonda and Pacome Zouzoua are nearing a return to fitness.

He noted: “We won’t rush anyone back, Yanga has a strong squad, and we’ll be approaching the match with an aggressive spirit,” he clarified.

This highly anticipated encounter promises a thrilling display of Tanzanian football. Yanga's passionate fanbase holds the potential to swing the momentum in the club's favour.

With a packed stadium chanting Yanga's name, the squad can take a significant step toward claiming a third consecutive league title.

The Jangwani Street-based side is the league leader by a wide margin and the outfit has been nearly unstoppable, racking up 18 wins and only losing twice in 21 games.

Their offense is on fire, leading the NBC Premier League with a whopping 52 goals and midfielder Stephane Aziz Ki is the league’s top goal scorer with 14 goals.

These two teams have a history of facing each other in closely contested games. In their last five league meetings, either squad has only won once, with the other three games ending in draws.

However, Yanga's recent 5-1 thrashing of Simba SC is sure to be on everyone’s mind, and Simba SC will be eager for revenge.

This game is much bigger than just three points. It is a battle for city bragging rights and, more importantly, the championship title.

Soccer supporters ought to expect a tense match with both teams desperate to win. The stadium will be rocking as either side’s fans witness a clash that could decide the fate of the league.