Dar es Salaam. Football fans across the country are counting down the days to the much-anticipated Kariakoo Derby scheduled for June 25 at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
The match, which was previously postponed twice on March 8 and June 15 will see arch-rivals Simba and Yanga clash in a title-deciding encounter.
However, dark clouds may be looming over Yanga’s preparations as their leading striker, Prince Dube, is now a major doubt for the derby after picking up an injury during their 5-0 win over Tanzania Prisons.
The Zimbabwean forward was substituted after just 22 minutes in match after suffering a muscle problem in his left thigh.
He was replaced by Clatous Chama, who went on to score, alongside goals from Pacome Zouzoua (2), Mudathir Yahya, and Israel Mwenda.
Yanga team doctor, Moses Etutu, confirmed the injury, stating: “Unfortunately, during an aerial challenge, Dube experienced sharp pain in his left hamstring. Initial examinations revealed a significant strain in the muscle, which caused intense pain.”
Dr Etutu noted that Dube has already started first-phase treatment and is responding positively.
“We began primary treatment immediately and he’s shown encouraging signs since yesterday. Today we’ll continue with assessments and, upon returning to Dar es Salaam, he will undergo detailed scans,” he added.
According to the medical team, those scans will provide a clearer picture of the extent of the damage and determine how long Dube may be sidelined, especially with three critical matches ahead—two in the league and one in the Azam Sports Federation Cup final.
“So far, the situation looks hopeful,” Etutu remarked. “He’s stable and early treatment has gone well. If everything progresses positively, we hope to have him back before our next matches.”
Yanga are scheduled to face Dodoma Jiji this Sunday before locking horns with Simba on June 25.
They will then meet Singida Black Stars in the FA Cup final on June 29.
Medical experts note that a Grade 1 (mild) hamstring strain typically heals within 1–3 weeks with rest, ice, light stretching, and physiotherapy.
A Grade 2 (moderate) strain, which involves partial tearing and moderate pain or swelling, may require 4–8 weeks of rehabilitation.
However, a Grade 3 (severe) tear, involving a complete rupture of the muscle with intense pain and possible bruising, can take up to three months and may require surgery.
With Yanga leading the league table on 76 points and Simba closely trailing with 75, both having played 28 matches, the outcome of the June 25 derby could prove decisive in the title race.
Dube’s availability or lack thereof could significantly impact Yanga’s hopes in that crucial battle.
