Moroccan officials to handle 169th Kariakoo Derby between Simba SC and Young Africans

The highly anticipated Kariakoo derby between Tanzanian giants Simba SC and Young Africans SC will be officiated by a team of Moroccan referees when the two rivals meet on May 3 at the Meja Isamuyo Stadium.

The appointment forms part of the officiating arrangement for match number 169 of the 2025–26 NBC Premier League season, underscoring the significance attached to one of African football’s most intense club rivalries.

At the centre of proceedings will be referee Hamza El Faruq, who will take charge of the high-stakes encounter. He will be assisted on the lines by Lahsene Azkawi, serving as the first assistant referee, and Hamza El Nasri as the second assistant referee.

The role of fourth official, also known as the reserve referee, has been assigned to Mostafa Kchaaf, completing the all-Moroccan officiating team for the fixture.

The decision to bring in foreign officials is widely seen as an effort to ensure neutrality and maintain high refereeing standards in a match that traditionally draws immense attention and passion from supporters of both clubs.

The Kariakoo derby remains one of the standout fixtures in East African football, often carrying significant implications for the NBC Premier League title race and club pride.