Dar es Salaam. In a thrilling edition of the Kariakoo Derby, Young Africans SC (Yanga) narrowly defeated archrivals Simba SC 1–0 to retain the 2025 Tanzania Community Shield at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on September 16, 2025.
The solitary goal arrived in the 53rd minute when Ivorian striker Pacome Zouzoua capitalised on a rebound after Simba goalkeeper Moussa Camara failed to secure a powerful shot from Maxi Nzengeli.
Demonstrating composure, Zouzoua slotted the ball home, sparking jubilant celebrations among the Yanga supporters.
The match, which served as the curtain-raiser for the 2025/26 Mainland Tanzania Premier League season, lived up to expectations, with both teams showing tactical discipline and attacking intent.
Simba’s Kibu Dennis came close in the early stages, while Yanga’s Prince Dube squandered a clear opportunity at the other end.
Just before halftime, Yanga’s goalkeeper Djigui Diarra made a crucial save from Seleman Mwalimu’s header, keeping the score level.
Following the restart, Yanga intensified pressure, with Maxi Nzengeli troubling Simba’s defence down the flanks.
The persistent attacks ultimately forced the defensive error that allowed Zouzoua’s decisive strike.
Simba pressed forward in search of an equaliser, but Yanga’s backline, led by captain Dickson Job, remained resolute until the final whistle.
This victory marked Yanga’s sixth triumph over Simba in the Community Shield, balancing the head-to-head tally in the competition at four wins each, although Simba retains a slight overall lead with five victories.
For head coach Romain Folz, it was his first silverware since taking over this season, while Simba’s coach Fadlu Davids suffered his fourth defeat to Yanga since his appointment, raising concerns about his derby record.
The 2025 Community Shield once again delivered the passion and intensity synonymous with Tanzanian football, reinforcing Yanga’s ambition to maintain their dominant status in the domestic league.
