SIMBA Sports Club have issued a firm statement reiterating their unwavering stance on the scheduling of Mainland Premier League Match No. 184 against traditional rivals Young Africans SC (Yanga).

The club has declared that it will only participate in the highly anticipated fixture if it is held tomorrow, June 15, 2025, the date initially set by the Tanzania Premier League Board (TPLB).

In a strongly worded statement released to their members and fans, Simba emphasized that any attempts to reschedule the derby would be unacceptable and contrary to football governance procedures. The club categorically stated that it will not take part in Match No. 184 if it is played on any date other than Sunday, June 15.

“Simba will not play Match No. 184 unless it is played on Sunday, June 15, 2025,” the statement read.

Simba further noted that any change to the match date would undermine the integrity of the league’s schedule and violate the established principles of fair competition. The club views the original fixture date as binding, and any alteration would be seen as a breach of trust and sporting norms.

In light of this, the club has called on its supporters to turn out in large numbers at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on the scheduled date to show their unwavering support for the team. 

Simba underscored the importance of unity and solidarity in standing up for justice and fairness in the management of football competitions.

“The club insists the fixture must be respected as originally announced by the League Board,” the statement continued, “Supporters are urged to fill the stadium and back the team on this important day.”

Simba’s public declaration has sparked widespread debate among football stakeholders in Tanzania, with fans, analysts, and officials closely watching to see whether the match date will remain unchanged or if Simba’s firm stance will be honored.

Meanwhile, Simba’s squad has intensified its preparations for the derby clash, continuing training sessions at Mo Simba Arena ahead of the crucial matchday. Despite silence from the home side regarding their own match preparations, the Premier League board has reportedly assured Simba that the fixture will proceed as initially scheduled.

Simba SC’s Media and Communications Manager, Ahmed Ally (pictured), confirmed the club’s readiness and praised the commitment of the players and technical staff. He reiterated the call for fans to show up in full force at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium this Sunday.

“Preparations are going well, and with just three days to go, the team is in good shape and has no injury concerns,” said Ally. “This is why we’re calling on fans to pack the stadium and support the team as we face our biggest rivals.”

Sources within the Simba leadership revealed that the club does not anticipate any changes to the match date in the remaining days leading up to the fixture. They further expressed confidence that the league board will ensure that the league schedule is followed to the letter, respecting the decisions already made.