‘Mzizima Derby’ to Be Played at Benjamin Mkapa on Feb 24

Simba and Azam Set for Clash at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium

Saturday, February 22, 2025

By Charles Abel

Summary:

Simba currently holds the second position in the NBC Premier League standings with 50 points, while Azam FC is in third place with 43 points.

The Tanzania Premier League Board (TPLB) has announced a change in both the venue and the kickoff time for the upcoming match between Simba and Azam, scheduled for Sunday, February 24, 2025. Originally set to take place at the KMC Complex, the high-profile encounter will now be held at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on the same date, but with a new kickoff time of 9:00 PM.

A statement issued by TPLB today explained that the venue change was made to allow more fans to attend the match. "The decision was made to accommodate a larger crowd, as this game is one of the biggest fixtures in the NBC Premier League, drawing significant public attention," the statement said.

The Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, with a capacity of 60,000 spectators, has long been the venue of choice for high-profile matches, regularly hosting games that attract large crowds.

"The clubs involved, Simba and Azam, as well as other stakeholders, have been formally notified about the changes, and preparations are proceeding smoothly, with safety considerations being prioritized. The board wishes all stakeholders the best of luck in preparing for this highly anticipated 'Mzizima Derby'," the TPLB statement further clarified.

This change means that both league encounters between Simba and Azam this season will not be played at their respective home grounds. The first-round match, originally scheduled for Azam's home stadium, Azam Complex in Chamazi, Dar es Salaam, was instead played at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar. Simba emerged victorious in that fixture, securing a 2-0 win thanks to goals from Leonel Ateba and Fabrice Ngoma.

Notably, in the last five encounters between the two teams, Simba has won twice, Azam has claimed one victory, and the remaining two matches ended in draws.