Azam FC U20 have been crowned champions of the 2025/26 NBC U20 Youth League after securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Young Africans SC (Yanga) U20 in the final played at the Azam Complex in Dar es Salaam.The win capped an exciting season that highlighted the growing competitiveness and technical improvement of youth football in Tanzania.

In the third-place playoff, Mbeya City FC U20 defeated JKT Tanzania U20 4-2 on penalties after a closely contested match that ended in a draw during regular time.

The championship ceremony was attended by key football stakeholders including representatives from the National Bank of Commerce (NBC), the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF), and the Tanzania Premier League Board (TPLB).NBC’s Head of Entrepreneurs, Youth and Women Banking, Gaudence Shawa, represented the bank’s Managing Director during the trophy presentation.

He emphasized that the U20 Youth League is not just a competition but a strategic investment aimed at strengthening Tanzania’s football development pathway from grassroots to professional level.NBC reiterated its commitment to supporting football through sponsorship of the NBC Premier League, NBC Championship, and NBC U20 Youth League.

The bank highlighted that consistent investment in youth football is helping to produce better-skilled players who can progress to higher leagues and the national team.

Officials from TFF and regional football associations praised NBC for its continued support, noting visible improvements in discipline, talent development, and competition standards across participating clubs.

Stakeholders agreed that the league plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Tanzanian football by offering young players a structured platform to develop their skills, gain experience, and transition into elite football environments.

The initiative is also seen as contributing to broader economic and social benefits through job creation, youth empowerment, and community engagement across the country.