There is only one match today, April 25, 2026 that carries the weight and intensity of a final, as Azam FC face defending ‘Muungano Cup’ champions Yanga at Amaan Stadium, kicking off at 8:15pm in the first leg of the semi-final.
Yanga were the first to secure a place in this stage after a dominant 4–0 win over Muembe Makumbi City in the quarter-finals, while Azam followed with a solid 2–0 victory against KVZ a day later.
Yanga are determined to defend the title they won last season after edging JKU 1–0, while Azam are chasing a historic first-ever Muungano Cup triumph.
The two sides have already gone head-to-head twice this season and have been evenly matched.
Yanga won the ‘Mapinduzi Cup’ final on penalties (5–4) after a 0–0 draw in 120 minutes, before both teams settled for a goalless draw in the league.
Both clubs remain unbeaten in the league this season, with draws being their only setbacks heading into this highly anticipated clash.
Historically, they have met 17 times in all competitions outside league action.
Yanga have won 10, Azam five, and two matches have ended in draws.
Despite the looming Kariakoo Derby against Simba on May 3, Yanga are expected to field a strong side as they chase another trophy.
Azam, on the other hand, have signaled serious intent by resting key players such as Feisal Salum “Fei Toto”, Idd Seleman “Nado”, goalkeeper Aishi Manula, and defenders Lusajo Mwaikenda and Fuentes Mendoza, all of whom could return for this crucial encounter.
Up front, both teams are led by in-form foreign strikers Prince Dube and Jean Ngita who have each scored twice in the competition so far.
The midfield battle is expected to be decisive, especially if Fei Toto starts.
He leads the league in assists with seven, just ahead of Yanga’s Allan Okello, who has six in the league and one in the tournament.
Yanga will rely on Duke Abuya, Mudathir Yahya, Mohamed Damaro, and Maxi Nzengeli, while Azam are likely to turn to Himid Mao, James Akaminko, Adolf Mtasingwa (returning from injury), and Sadio Kanoute.
The clash in midfield is expected to be fierce, blending creativity, power, and defensive discipline from both sides.
For Azam coach Florent Ibenge, this is a chance for revenge after losing the Mapinduzi Cup final, while Yanga’s Pedro Goncalves is looking to extend his dominance and push for more silverware this season.
Anticipation is high, with fans expected to pack Amaan Stadium in larger numbers than previous matches, as this is widely seen as the most exciting fixture of the tournament so far.
Azam coach Florent Ibenge said his team is fully prepared for a tough challenge against the league’s strongest side.
“Tomorrow (today) is a big match. Everyone knows that currently in our league Yanga are the best statistically. We know we are facing a strong team in the semi-final,” said Ibenge.
“We enjoy these kinds of matches. I am proud of my players for reaching this stage. We are ready as usual and will select players who can give us a positive result.”
Yanga coach Pedro Goncalves also acknowledged the difficulty ahead.
“Tomorrow (today) we face Azam FC, one of the strongest teams competing for domestic titles. They have invested heavily, quality players, and a highly experienced coach in African football,” he said.
“We expect a tough match and must be fully prepared. We are in a demanding schedule, and if we progress, we will face another difficult opponent in the final and later Simba in the league. But these are the matches that motivate us.”
