A REAL buzz is expected in and around the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar this evening as two title contenders, Azam and Simba take on each other in the Premier League Round 4 fixture.

Hosts Azam begin this round of matches third on the log with eight points while visitors Simba are down in sixth place on six points.

After finishing second to secure CAF Champions League football, Azam will be set on achieving further success this season.

Unfortunately for Azam, they failed to replicate their domestic form in their Champions League playoff qualifying round tie against APR, disappointingly losing 2-1 on aggregate to bow out in the early rounds once again.

They also failed in their attempt to achieve the ideal start to the 2024/25 Premier League season, settling for back-to-back goalless draws in their opening two fixtures.

However, Azam have bounced back in fantastic fashion and will enter the tie in higher spirits after two brilliant performances and clean-sheet wins over KMC and Coastal Union.

Nevertheless, the trip to the New Amaan Complex will represent the biggest challenge yet for Rachid Taoussi and his troops.

On the flip side, Simba come into the game on the back of a convincing 3-1 win against Libya’s Al Ahli Tripoli that secured a CAF Confederation Cup Group Stage spot on the weekend.

The win over Al Ahli Tripoli means Simba have won four of their six competitive fixtures this season. 

They have won all two of their league games, with the only defeat coming against arch-rivals Young Africans in the Community Shield final in August.

The outcome of this high-stakes match could have a significant impact on the title race as both teams march toward the championship.

Both teams, aware of the implications, are expected to approach the game with a blend of caution and aggression, typical of high-octane clashes where the balance can tip with a single play.

Neither team will want to give much away this early into the season. As the Premier League drama unfolds, this match could serve as a significant indicator of both teams’ title credentials and their ability to navigate the pressures of expectation and competition.

The historical head-to-head record between these two giants adds an extra layer of intrigue. 

Azam and Simba have met in 34 league matches since 2008. Simba have 14 wins compared to eight for Azam while 12 matches have been drawn.