By Business Insider Reporter
The much-anticipated Kariakoo Derby between archrivals Tanga SC and Simba SC will be officiated by a foreign team of referees, with Egyptian international Amin Mohamed Amin Omar appointed to take charge of the high-stakes clash at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on Wednesday, June 25.
The Tanzania Premier League Board (TPLB) confirmed the decision on Monday, signalling the growing stature of the fixture and its implications for the NBC Premier League title race. With the two giants separated by a single point, the derby could determine this season’s champion.
Omar, renowned for his firm but fair approach, will be joined by fellow Egyptians Mahmoud Ahmed Abo El Regal and Samir Gamal Saad Mohamed as assistant referees, with Ahmed Mahrous ElGhandour serving as the fourth official.
Salim Omary Singano from Tanga will be Match Commissioner, while Somali national Alli Mohamed will assess the refereeing team.
Chairman of the Tanzania Referees Committee, Nassor Hamduni, said the move is both pragmatic and progressive.
“The referees initially assigned to the match were unavailable, and we didn’t have enough time to prepare replacements locally. Bringing in experienced international officials ensures professionalism and neutrality,” he noted.
Hamduni added that the decision aligns with a broader vision to exchange officiating expertise across borders: “Our referees have officiated matches abroad. Now we bring in others to enrich our standards. It’s a learning opportunity, not a sign of weakness.”
The derby, often marked by tension, massive crowds, and intense rivalries, has in the past been marred by disputed officiating.
TFF’s move to appoint an impartial foreign referee is being seen as a way to restore confidence in the fairness of match outcomes.
Omar is familiar with Tanzanian clubs, having officiated CAF matches involving both Simba and Yanga in recent seasons. His firm style has earned him a reputation across the continent – this season alone, he has officiated 22 matches, issuing 86 yellow cards.
With kickoff set for 5:00 PM East African Time, anticipation is sky-high.
Tens of thousands of fans are expected to fill the stadium, with millions more tuning in via television and radio. As the curtain nears on the league season, the decision to bring in foreign referees is seen not just as a logistical solution – but as a bold statement about integrity, development, and the rising stakes of Tanzanian football.
