TANZANIA’s women’s football season kicks off in style today, October 9, with a thrilling double header in the 2025 Women’s Community Shield semi-finals at the KMC Complex, Dar es Salaam.

n the early kick-off at 1:00 p.m., Simba Queens face Mashujaa Queens in what promises to be an entertaining encounter.  Simba Queens, who finished runners-up in last season’s Tanzania Women’s Premier League behind champions JKT Queens, will be keen to start their campaign on a high note under their new head coach Elieneza Nicolaus, who took over from predecessor Yusif Basigi.

 The Msimbazi Street side has been one of the busiest in the transfer market, securing several notable signings including Asha Omary, Umutesiwase Magnifique, Zanga Brice, Elizabeth Joseph, Usanese Zawadi, Neema Mtunzi, Ruth Aturo, Cynthia Shilwatso, Elizabeth Nashon, Odoma Amarachi, Nandede Zainah, Zuhura Waziri, and Fasila Adhiambo. 

 With such reinforcements, Simba are expected to pose a serious threat to all rivals this season.Their opponents, Mashujaa Queens, who finished fourth last term, will be looking to upset the odds and announce themselves as serious contenders in this year’s competition.

The second semi-final, kicking off at 4:00 p.m., pits defending champions JKT Queens against Yanga Princess in what has become one of the fiercest rivalries in Tanzanian women’s football.

 JKT Queens, the reigning Premier League and Community Shield holders, are under new head coach Kessy Juma, who replaces the outgoing technical team that led them to a historic double last season. 

 The four-time Tanzanian champions and two-time CECAFA winners are expected to maintain their dominance but face a well-prepared Yanga Princess side. Yanga, guided by coach Edna Lema (pictured), are eager to avenge last year’s defeat to JKT in the final. Lema, entering her second consecutive season in charge, exuded confidence ahead of the clash, saying:

 “We have no pressure because the team is well prepared. We respect JKT Queens, but we are not afraid of them. We ended last season strongly and have improved further this time. Our goal is to start the new campaign with quality performances.”

 Yanga have also strengthened their squad with several additions, including Ester Kolonely, Wincate Kaari, Ritticia Nabbosa, Precious Christopher - who returns after a stint at Simba Queens - and Akudo Esther Ogbonna.