The NBC Premier League action continues today with two matches scheduled at different venues.
In the early kickoff at 10:00 AM, Mbeya City will host Singida BS at Tanzanite Kwaraa Stadium in Babati, Manyara region.
The main attraction follows later with the highly anticipated Dar es Salaam derby between Azam FC and Yanga SC, set for 2:30 PM at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
When it comes to local rivalries, the Azam FC vs Yanga clash may be the most competitive derby in the country, possibly even more intense than the Kariakoo derby, based on recent match results.
Last season, each team won one match against the other, with both sides scoring two goals in the two encounters. This season, Azam FC and Yanga SC are the only teams yet to lose a match in the league.
Yanga SC lead the league with 35 points from 13 matches, while Azam FC sit in third with 27 points from 13 games as well.
The teams last met in the final of the Mapinduzi Cup in January, with Yanga SC claiming the title via penalties after a goalless draw.
It is expected to be 90 minutes of intense and entertaining football for local fans.
Ali Kamwe, Yanga’s Media and Communications Manager, has urged supporters to turn out in large numbers at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium to cheer their team, emphasizing the importance of a win.
Kamwe acknowledged the difficulty of the match but expressed confidence that the team would emerge victorious thanks to thorough preparations and the quality of the squad.
A win for Yanga SC would further strengthen their position at the top of the league, while Azam FC could move up to second place if they win or secure a draw.
However, any result will not dethrone Yanga SC from the top of the standings, as they currently lead by a 7-point margin.