Dar es Salaam. The decision to reschedule the highly anticipated Kariakoo Derby between Simba SC and Yanga SC to June 25 has turned out to be a masterstroke for Simba, as three of their most influential players Moussa Camara, Abdulrazack Hamza, and Shomari Kapombe have all been cleared to return to action, restoring calm and confidence within the Msimbazi camp.
This derby, which traditionally transcends football and spills into Tanzanian social and cultural identity, demands the very best from both sides physically, tactically, and mentally.
For Simba, the return of Camara, Hamza, and Kapombe is a restoration of the spine of their defensive structure, which will be key in nullifying Yanga’s dangerous attacking threats, including Stephane Clement Mzize, and Pacome Zouzoua.
Camara back between the posts
Malian shot-stopper Moussa Camara, who had been a doubt due to a chest-related illness sustained during their encounter against Singida Black Stars, has now fully recovered and is back in full training.
Known for his quick reflexes, commanding aerial presence, and vocal leadership at the back, Camara’s return could be a game-changer in this high-pressure encounter.
Camara has been a consistent performer for Simba this season, with several clean sheets to his name and countless match-saving interventions.
His absence in any major fixture often leaves a void not easily filled, and his fitness ahead of the derby could significantly boost the morale of the entire squad.
Hamza cleared after suspension worries
For Abdulrazack Hamza, the derby initially appeared out of reach. The towering defender had picked up three yellow cards, putting him on the suspension list for the original derby date of June 15.
However, the rescheduling of the game to June 25 means that Hamza will now serve his suspension in the fixture against KenGold thereby making him eligible for the biggest match on the local football calendar.
This development has sparked optimism among Simba’s faithful, who regard Hamza as one of the most improved players this season.
His partnership with Che Malone in central defense has brought stability to the backline, and his physical presence, aerial dominance, and ball distribution skills are crucial in handling Yanga’s direct play and dangerous set-pieces.
Kapombe fit again after medical break
Veteran defender Shomari Kapombe, a stalwart in Tanzanian football and a player with a wealth of derby experience, had been out for two weeks due to muscle fatigue and minor health concerns.
Now back in training, Kapombe is working around the clock to regain full match fitness ahead of the clash.
Kapombe’s presence brings maturity, composure, and tactical intelligence to the right flank. His ability to balance defense and support in overlapping runs will be vital as Simba seeks to contain Yanga’s wing play and counter-attacks.
Moreover, his leadership qualities and calmness under pressure are essential in a match where tempers flare and moments of individual brilliance often decide the outcome.
Medical team confirms clean bill of health
Speaking to Bizlens, Simba’s Head of Medical Services, Dr. Edwin Kagabo, delivered the news every Simba fan was hoping to hear: the squad is currently free from injuries.
“In our last match against Singida Black Stars, Camara had some chest issues, but he has recovered and is now training normally. Nouma had a slight knock, but he’s also back to full fitness.
As it stands, all players are available and ready. The team is medically sound and fully prepared,” said Kagabo.
He added: “We have no injuries at the moment. Players such as Moussa Camara, Mzamiru Yassin, and Valentino Nouma are back in shape.
Training intensity is high, and everyone is pushing hard to impress the coaching team. From our side, everything is in place — now it’s up to the coach to make tactical decisions.”
A morale boost ahead of the biggest game
The timing of the derby coming at the climax of the NBC Premier League season adds even more weight to the clash.
Both teams are determined to finish the campaign on a high, and for Simba, ensuring that their key players are fit and available brings a huge psychological advantage.
The return of the trio has visibly lifted the mood in Simba’s camp. Training sessions at Mo Simba Arena have been intense and spirited, with players battling for places and coaches focusing on fine-tuning both attack and defense.
The Simba technical bench, led by Coach Fadlu Davids, is now working with a full squad a rare luxury at this stage of the season.
It is expected that Davids will spend the coming days finalizing his game plan, analyzing Yanga’s patterns, and identifying weaknesses to exploit.
