TP Mazembe forward Thomas Ulimwengu has called for patriotism over club rivalry as his side prepares to take on Simba SC’s sworn rivals Yanga SC in a CAF Confederations Cup group “A” fixture at the National Stadium, Dar es Salaam Tuesday.
Ulimwengu, a Tanzanian international was categorical the nation comes above any individual’s own glory – this in a direct response to Simba fans, some of whom have purchased Mazembe replica jerseys and printed his image at the back.
Simba fans donning Mazembe replicas with Ulimwengu image at the back.
Simba fans have vowed to rally behind Mazembe, and more specifically Ulimwengu whom they consider their own, and help them whip their noisy rivals who have chocked them on local scene.
“If someone chooses to glorify an individual’s own achievements over country, then such a person needs mental check; I’m a Tanzanian and I am only at Mazembe for work. I would be happy to see Tanzania football move forward.” Ulimwengu said.
The former Moro United player has promised not to celebrate if he scores tomorrow.
“If I score on home soil, I will not celebrate, for I have friends and family members who are Yanga fans. Love your country build your country.” He added.
Simba Sport Club Media officer Manasa Haji said that it’s not news their fans putting on the Mazembe jerseys.
“In 2011 Yanga fans put on Mazembe jerseys cheering the Congo DR side when we met in a CAF Champions League match in Dar, I therefore don’t see anything new in this.”
Earlier, Yanga management had requested Tanzania Football Federation ( TFF ) to bar Simba fans from attending the match by denying them tickets but the national FA refused.
Yanga has since announced the match will be a free entry for all as the seek to boost home support.
The 24 times league winners lost their group opener 1-0 to MO Bejaia of Algeria while DR Congo’s Mazembe were 3-1 victorious over Ghana’s Medeama.
@bonfaceosano
