Simba delighted with strong start to 2024/2025 season

By Nassir Nchimbi , The Guardian
Published at 06:47 AM Aug 28 2024
Simba Sports Club squad before their Premier League match against Fountain Gate FC at KMC Complex in Dar es Salaam on Sunday. Simba won 4-0.
Photo: Courtesy of SSC
Simba Sports Club squad before their Premier League match against Fountain Gate FC at KMC Complex in Dar es Salaam on Sunday. Simba won 4-0.

SIMBA SC have expressed satisfaction with their performance after securing victories in their first two matches of the 2024/2025 Premier League season. Determined to reclaim the league title that has eluded them for the past three years, the club is off to a strong start.

Following their convincing 4-0 victory over Fountain Gate FC at the KMC Stadium on Sunday, Simba have continued to demonstrate impressive early-season form. This dominant performance, building on their earlier 3-0 win against Tabora United, has solidified their position at the top of the league table. 

While they are tied on six points with Singida Black Stars, Simba hold a narrow lead based on goal difference.

This promising start to the league season marks a positive rebound from their recent loss to Young Africans in the Community Shield mini-tournament earlier this month.

Simba's Media and Information Manager, Ahmed Ally, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the team's rapid integration of new players. He highlighted how the newcomers have quickly gelled with the existing squad, forming a formidable unit.

Under the guidance of new head coach Fadlu Davids, Simba have made significant additions to their roster this season, signing thirteen new players. Davids has given ample playing time to most of his new recruits, fostering a competitive team dynamic.

Several of the recent signings have already made a notable impact on the team's scoring prowess. Che Fondoh Malone, Awesu Ally, Edwin Balua, Jean Charles Ahoua, Steven Mukwala, and Valentino Mashaka have all contributed goals in the league matches. 

Ahoua, in particular, has been instrumental in creating scoring opportunities. With three assists to his name, his combined goals and assists (G/A) tally now stands at four. 

Captain Mohamed Hussein and Shomari Kapombe have also provided valuable assists, demonstrating the team's overall offensive capabilities.

"We're pleased with the team's progress and individual player development. Our goalkeeper, Moussa Camara, has maintained a clean sheet in two matches. Defender Abdulrazack Hamza continues to mature and improve, showing growing confidence. This highlights the positive impact of bringing new talent into the league," said Ally.

Ally also praised the team's striking options, noting that both strikers have contributed goals this season. Mashaka has scored in consecutive matches, while Mukwala has also found the net. Cameroonian striker Lionel Ateba has yet to make his debut for the club but is expected to do so against Libya's Al Ahly Tripoli in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup tie.

The match is scheduled to take place between September 13 and 15 in Libya, with the return leg in Dar es Salaam between September 20 and 22. The aggregate winner of this two-legged series will advance to the Confederation Cup group stage.

Goalkeeper Aishi Manula has been making steady progress in training, although he is still a few weeks behind the rest of the squad. The team has already completed a six-week training program, and Manula is currently in his second week.

Davids opted to maintain the same starting lineup for the match, with only Awesu Ally replacing the injured Joshua Mutale. Yusuph Kagoma made his debut as a substitute.

Coach Davids has emphasized the importance of consistent practice and analysis. He noted that the team's improved movements on the flanks, defensive lines, and between the lines are a direct result of the hard work put in during training sessions.

The gaffer also has been tasked with ending the dominance of Young Africans after being part of the historic invincible domestic double alongside Josef Zinnbauer at Raja Athletic Club last season.