Simba–Yanga final dream reignited as TFF confirms Federation Cup semis

The Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) has officially confirmed the dates and venues for the 2026 CRDB Bank Federation Cup semi-finals, setting the stage for what could potentially lead to another historic Kariakoo Derby final.

With fierce rivals Simba SC and Young Africans SC placed on opposite sides of the draw, attention has quickly shifted to the possibility of the two giants meeting again in a final only weeks after their latest showdown in the Muungano Cup in Zanzibar.

The semi-final fixtures will be played on June 20 and June 21, 2026, across two venues: Sheikh Amri Abeid Memorial Stadium in Arusha and CCM Kirumba Stadium in Mwanza, respectively. chincha.pl

Simba SC will face Coastal Union on Saturday, June 20, in Arusha, while defending champions Yanga will take on Azam FC on Sunday, June 21, in Mwanza.

Road to a Potential Kariakoo Derby Final Between Simba and Yanga Takes Shape

The draw has immediately sparked excitement among fans, with many already anticipating another blockbuster Simba–Yanga final should both sides win their respective semi-final matches.

The rivalry between the two clubs remains the biggest in Tanzanian football, and another final meeting would add to a growing list of high-stakes encounters between the traditional powerhouses.

Simba reached the semi-finals in commanding style after a dominant 4-0 victory over TRA United at the KMC Complex, showcasing their attacking strength and determination to secure silverware this season.

Yanga, on the other hand, booked their place with a controlled 2-0 win against JKT Tanzania at the Major General Isamuhyo Stadium, underlining their status as defending champions and strong title contenders once again.

However, both teams will need to overcome tough opposition before any dream final becomes reality.

Coastal Union come into the semi-finals with confidence after eliminating Singida Black Stars via penalties, winning 4-2 after a goalless draw at Mkwakwani Stadium. Their resilience makes them a dangerous opponent for Simba.

Azam FC also remain a serious threat after narrowly defeating Mashujaa FC 1-0 in Kigoma, proving their ability to handle pressure in knockout situations and spoil Yanga’s plans.

The selection of Arusha and Mwanza as host cities is expected to draw huge crowds, with fans eager to witness high-intensity football and potential upsets in both fixtures.

As the competition reaches its decisive stage, all eyes are now on whether the footballing script will deliver yet another Simba Yanga final, a fixture that continues to define Tanzanian football and capture nationwide attention whenever it is staged.

Golden Arrows captain Ayanda Jiyane is the latest player to be linked with a potential move to Orlando Pirates in the off-season transfer period.

According to a source close to the club, talks have already taken place over the 23-year-old centre-back, who has been a revelation since joining Arrows on a free transfer following the demise of Royal AM.

“Initial talks have taken place, and Jiyane is also keen on the move to Pirates, so don’t be surprised to see him join them during the next transfer window,” said the source.

Jiyane, who has formed an integral part of Manqoba Mngqithi’s new-look side, has made 33 appearances in all competitions for Abafana Bes’thende this season.

His performances have drawn comparisons to club legend Siyabonga Sangweni, who also flourished under Mngqithi before going on to achieve success with Pirates.

And judging by his constant praises of the talented defender, Mngqithi is fond of Jiyane, and will be keen to retain him for next season. That’s if he (Mngqithi) stays with Arrows, because, as reported earlier, Mngqithi is also linked with the head coaching role at Kaizer Chiefs.

Several African players produced brilliant performances, with some registering their names on the score sheet as the European season reaches the last stage.

Ghana international Inaki Williams netted his third goal of the season in 29 appearances as Athletic Club drew 1-1 at home to Celta Vigo.

Guinea midfielder Ilaix Moriba dispossessed his opponent before setting up Williot Swedberg for Celta Vigo’s opener in the fourth minute.

Yuri Berchiche swept in a low cross with Inaki Williams tapping the equalizer from close range in the 52nd minute.

Inaki Williams has scored three goals in 29 games

In the French Ligue 1, Mali forward Lassine Sinayoko delivered a Man-of-the-Match performance, scoring a brace as Auxerre won 2-0 at Lille.

Sinayoko’s goal was his 12th of the season from 32 games and four assists as Auxerre escaped relegation by a whisker.

Senegal winger Issa Soumare netted his eighth goal of the campaign as Le Havre beat Lorient 2-0, with 21–year-old Senegal youngster Abdoulaye Faye gifting Le Havre the opener.

Gabon striker Pierre Emerick Aubameyang and Algeria’s Amine Gouiri scored a goal each during Olympique Marseille’s 3-1 home victory over Rennes.

There was a nine-goal thriller between Strasbourg and AS Monaco on Sunday, with Ivory Coast winger Martial Godo scoring two goals for Strasbourg, who defeated Monaco 5-4.

On the part of Monaco, Senegal midfielder Lamine Camara grabbed a brace during the defeat.

Algeria forward Anis Hadj Moussa was on song in the Dutch Eredivisie with two goals as Feyenoord nailed PEC Zwolle 2-0.

In the Turkish Super Lig, experienced Mali forward Adama Traore was on the score sheet during Genclerbirligi’s 3-0 win at Trabzonspor.