MASHUJAA FC will open their 2025/26 Mainland Premier League campaign this afternoon when they welcome JKT Tanzania to the Lake Tanganyika Stadium in Kigoma. Kick-off is scheduled for 4:00 PM in what promises to be a tightly contested encounter.

The two sides last met at this venue on the final day of the 2024/25 season, playing out a goalless draw. This time, both coaches will be eager to make a winning start as they look to set the tone for the new campaign.

Mashujaa, under experienced head coach Salum Mayanga (pictured), have built a reputation for being tough to beat at home, collecting 27 points in Kigoma last season. 

The hosts have been active in the transfer market, bringing in the likes of Selemani Bwenzi and Salum Kihimbwa to strengthen their ranks. However, they will need to adjust quickly following the departure of key defender Ame Ibrahim.

Goalkeeper Patrick Munthary is expected to retain his place between the posts, while Abdulmalik Zakaria and Mohamed Salim should anchor the backline. 

In attack, new signing Bwenzi could be partnered by Ismail Mgunda and David Ulomi in what looks like a promising front three.

JKT Tanzania, meanwhile, enter this campaign aiming to build on last season’s sixth-place finish. Though they showed flashes of quality, their record of 10 losses and 12 draws highlighted a lack of consistency. 

Head coach Hamad Ally will be looking to turn those narrow draws into wins and push for a top-four finish.

Their off-season saw notable departures, including centre-back Wilson Nangu and goalkeeper Yakub Seleman. In their place, new recruits Peter Kasunda, Ramadhan Chalamanda, and Valentino Mashaka have been brought in, with Chalamanda likely to make his competitive debut in goal. 

Ally Msengi and Laurian Makame are expected to marshal the defence.

The head-to-head record between these two clubs is evenly balanced, with each team boasting one win apiece from their four meetings since 2023. 

With both sides strengthened by off-season business, this clash is shaping up to be a cagey yet potentially entertaining start to the season in Kigoma.