Simba SC have pulled out of the highly anticipated Kariakoo derby on the eleventh hour, citing rule violations from their fierce rivals, while Yanga, who are the host team in this fixture, are adamant the match will go on as scheduled.

The blockbuster top-of-the-table affair between the two Tanzanian powerhouses, scheduled for Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on Saturday (18h15) is in doubt after Simba claimed they were denied access to hold their final training session at the stadium.

Furthermore, the Fadlu Davids-led team alleged that the Yanga security personnel attacked their team bus in a bid to prohibit them from training, which violates regulations, prompting the club to pull the plug in an official statement.

“Simba Sports Club is saddened by the unkind actions against our team towards the NBC Premier League against Yanga, Simba being the guest team,” read the club statement. 

“According to rule 17 (45) of the Premier League Rules, the visiting team has the right to practice on the match field at least once before the matchday in the expected time of the respective game. On purpose, Simba has been denied that right despite arriving at the stadium in the relevant time.

“In the confusion, Simba was informed by the stadium manager that he does not have instructions to allow training to take place without instructions from the game commissioner. With the commissioner of the relevant game arriving, the Yanga’s club bouncers attacked the Lions caravan while continuing the violence and causing the Lions caravan to enter the field to practice. 

“Simba’s efforts to find a solution to the challenge did not bear fruit for more than two hours before Simba left the area outside the stadium for security reasons that have been recorded for evidence. 

“Following the violation of the game procedures, Simba will not participate in the relevant game and all rights are reserved. Simba encourages strict action against all the parties involved in this saga.” 

While the NBC Tanzanian Premier League hierarchy is yet to address the matter publicly, Young Africans released a statement announcing the game will proceed as planned as they have no intentions of taking part in the match on a revised matchday.

“The management of Young Africans Sports Club would like to inform the public that our NBC Premier League game, scheduled to be played today on 8/3/2025, against Simba SC, at 7:15 pm is on hold and there is no change,” the statement read.

“Young Africans as hosts of the game, we believe that all the procedures of the game as directed in the regulations of the NBC Premier League, are correct and all preparations are ready. 

“The leadership of Young Africans SC will send the team to the Benjamin Mkapa stadium as directed in the rules, and we will not be ready to play this game on any other day other than today. 

“We invite to the field, members, fans, lovers of our club and other stakeholders, who have travelled from regions, neighboring countries and various parts of the world to witness this great game in Africa.”