DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA’S football giants Simba and Yanga will not clash in the Round of 32 or the Round of 16 of the CRDB Federation Cup after yesterday’s eagerly awaited draw handed the rivals different routes to the latter stages.
The draw, conducted live at the studios of Azam TV in Dar es Salaam, mapped out intriguing fixtures as the knockout race officially gathered momentum.
Simba have been paired against B19 FC in the Round of 32. If the reds advance, they will face the winner between Dodoma Jiji and African Sports in the Round of 16. It’s a favorable path on paper, but cup competitions are rarely predictable.
Defending champions Young Africans will continue their title defense against Polisi Tanzania. A victory would set up a Round of 16 showdown against the winner of Tanzania Prisons and TMA Stars. Meanwhile, Azam FC are set for a date with Mbeya Kwanza.
If they progress, they will meet the winner of the tie between Fountain Gate and Gunners FC. Mtibwa Sugar FC will take on Mbuni FC, with the victor advancing to face either JKT Tanzania or Hausung FC in the next round. Other fixtures promise fireworks across the country.
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Mbeya City face Bandari Tanzania, TRA United battle Kijiwe Nongwa, Pamba Jiji FC meet Transit Camp, while Mashujaa FC square off against KenGold. Singida Black Stars will tackle Songea United, Geita Gold host Nyika FC, Coastal face Stand United, and Namungo lock horns with Kagera Sugar.
Speaking during the draw, Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) competitions officer Baraka Kizuguto confirmed that Round of 32 matches will be played between March 6 and 8, while the Round of 16 ties are scheduled for April 9 to 11.
Since the tournament’s official reinstatement in the 2015/2016 season, only four clubs have lifted the trophy. Yanga lead the roll of honour with five titles, Simba have claimed three, while Azam FC and Mtibwa Sugar have each won it once.
With pride, silverware and continental spots at stake, the road to glory is now clearly drawn, but the battle is only just beginning.