Dar es Salaam. Defending champions Yanga SC have once again proven they are the team to beat in the NBC Tanzania Premier League after edging out Azam FC with a 2-1 win in a thrilling encounter at the Azam Complex, Chamazi.
Thursday’s win (April 10, 2025) comes months after Yanga suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Azam in the first round of the season.
This time, however, the Jangwani giants came prepared goals from Pacome Zouzoua, his ninth of the season, and Prince Dube, who notched his 12th, sealed the sweet revenge.
Azam’s only goal was scored by Lusajo Mwaikenda.
The match was an intense showdown marked by high energy and fierce competition, but Yanga displayed superior composure, especially in defense and their efficient use of chances.
Coach Miloud Hamdi’s side looked sharp and purposeful, with midfielders Mudathir Yahya and Duke Abuya playing a pivotal role in stifling Azam’s build-up play.
The loss is a bitter pill for Azam, who had earlier taken all three points with a lone goal at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in the reverse fixture.
Yanga’s response was emphatic, proving they remain true title contenders.
Following the win, Yanga now sit atop the league with 67 points from 27 matches.
Simba SC remain second with 57 points and three games in hand, keeping the title race alive but increasingly challenging.
This victory also serves as a morale boost for Yanga ahead of their Azam Sports Federation Cup (ASFC) semi-final, especially after overcoming a direct top-three rival.
Coach Hamdi praised his players’ discipline and underlined the psychological importance of avenging their earlier loss to Azam.
On the other hand, Azam lacked the sharpness seen in earlier matches.
Despite having talented midfielders like Feisal Salum, their attack was completely neutralized by the rock-solid Yanga defense led by Dickson Job and Ibrahim Bacca.
Yanga fans in attendance celebrated passionately, chanting songs of triumph and fueling belief that the championship could remain in Jangwani if the team’s form persists.
So far this season, Yanga have won 21 matches, drawn one, and lost just two in their 25 outings stats that underline their relentless pursuit of retaining the league title.
