Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: In a thrilling encounter that showcased the fierce rivalry of Tanzanian football, Young Africans (Yanga) emerged triumphant over archrivals Simba with a 1-0 victory in the Community Shield match held at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
A decisive second-half strike from Ivorian forward Pacome Zouzoua secured Yanga’s sixth Community Shield title, reaffirming their dominance in this prestigious domestic competition.
The match kicked off with both teams displaying high energy and intensity, characteristic of a derby. Simba’s Kibu Dennis had an early opportunity but failed to convert, while at the other end, Yanga’s Prince Dube squandered a clear chance that could have put his team ahead.
As the first half drew to a close, Yanga’s goalkeeper Djigui Diarra made a crucial save, denying Seleman Mwalimu’s powerful header during injury time, and ensuring that the match remained goalless at halftime.
The breakthrough came in the 53rd minute, thanks to Zouzoua, who capitalized on a mistake by Simba’s goalkeeper Moussa Camara. Following a thunderous shot from Maxi Nzengeli that Camara was unable to handle, the ball rebounded perfectly to Zouzoua. The striker displayed remarkable composure as he slotted the ball into the net, igniting wild celebrations among the Yanga faithful.
In pursuit of an equalizer, Simba pushed forward, increasing their attacking efforts. However, Yanga’s defense, expertly managed by captain Dickson Job, held firm against Simba’s advances. Despite multiple attempts from Simba to break through, including several long-range efforts, the Yanga backline, along with Diarra’s goalkeeping brilliance, ensured that the scoreline remained unchanged.
For Yanga’s head coach Romain Folz, this victory marked a significant achievement as it was his first silverware since taking over the managerial role from Miloud Hamdi earlier in the season. Folz’s tactical nous was evident, as his side not only managed to secure the win but also neutralized Simba’s attacking threats effectively.
Conversely, the result intensified the scrutiny on Simba’s South African head coach Fadlu Davids. Despite reshuffling the squad in hopes of a stronger comeback, this loss marked his fourth consecutive defeat against Yanga, raising concerns over his ability to guide Simba to success in critical matches involving their oldest rivals.
Historically, this victory takes on even greater significance. With the Community Shield being introduced in 2001, these two teams had previously met fiercely, with Simba maintaining a slight advantage. However, with this victory, Yanga leveled the head-to-head tally at four wins each, although Simba still holds the edge overall with five victories in the Community Shield.
As the 2025 football season kicks off, Yanga’s impressive display, coupled with Zouzoua’s standout performance, proves that they are serious contenders for the domestic title. Their tactical maturity and excellent squad depth have become apparent, not only in this match but throughout the past season.
The match will be fondly remembered by Yanga supporters, marking another chapter in the storied rivalry with Simba, especially Zouzoua’s goal, which will echo in the memories of the fans celebrating back-to-back Community Shield victories. The Community Shield clash once again underlined the passion and competitive spirit that define Tanzanian football, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what the new season holds for both sides.
