HEAD coach Steve Barker expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance after Simba Sports Club secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Greenland to book their place in the Round of 32 of the Federation Cup.

The match, played on Tuesday at the Major General Isamuhyo Stadium, saw Simba deliver a professional display, with goals from Baraka Mwangosi, Anthony Mligo and Neo Maema sealing progression from the Round of 64. 

Speaking after the final whistle, Barker said he was pleased with the overall performance, despite acknowledging that expectations are often higher in fixtures of this nature. 

“It was a good game. I am satisfied with the performance,” Barker said. “In games like this, people expect a spectacular display and maybe a win of more than five goals. But all in all, my boys played well.”

 His remarks reflected a measured approach, focusing less on the margin of victory and more on the execution of tactical instructions and squad management. The South African coach revealed that he made significant changes to the starting line-up for the encounter, rotating several players as part of a broader strategy.

 Barker explained that the match offered a valuable opportunity to give playing time to members of the squad who had featured less in recent fixtures. With Simba juggling multiple competitions, squad rotation has become an essential tool in maintaining freshness and competitiveness.

 “This was also about giving chances to players who have not had many minutes in previous matches,” he noted. “We are heading into a busy period, especially with the continuation of the Premier League, where we are fighting for the title.”

 Simba officially began their campaign for domestic cup silverware after concluding their journey in the CAF Champions League. The Federation Cup now represents a key target for the Msimbazi Street giants, and Barker made it clear that the competition is being treated with seriousness.

 According to the coach, the changes made against Greenland were not a sign of underestimating the opponent, but part of a long term plan to build a strong and competitive squad capable of challenging on all fronts.

 “The changes were not about disrespecting the match,” Barker emphasized. “It is part of our long term plan to build a team that can compete strongly in every domestic competition.”

 On the pitch, Simba wasted little time asserting their dominance. Mwangosi opened the scoring in the 12th minute, finishing confidently giving the hosts an early advantage. The goal settled the team and allowed them to control possession and dictate the tempo.

 Greenland attempted to respond, but Simba’s organization and discipline limited their opportunities. Just before the halftime whistle, Mligo doubled the lead, scoring in added time of the first half to send Simba into the break with a commanding 2-0 cushion.

 In the second half, Barker’s side maintained control, showing composure rather than urgency. As the match approached its conclusion, Maema added the third goal, effectively putting the contest beyond doubt and completing a clinical team performance.

 Beyond the scoreline, Barker highlighted the importance of developing depth within the squad. He reiterated that expanding his pool of reliable options is crucial as Simba push for success in the league and other domestic competitions.

 “We are continuing to build a strong team,” he said. “The idea is to have many players ready and prepared so that we have a wide range of options for upcoming matches.”

 With advancement secured, Simba now turn their attention back to league duties, where consistency will be key in the title race. The win over Greenland not only ensured progression in the Federation Cup but also offered a timely confidence boost for players seeking more regular involvement.

 For Barker, the focus remains on steady improvement rather than flashy scorelines. While some supporters may have hoped for a bigger margin, the coach’s satisfaction underlined his belief that controlled performances and smart squad management are more important in the long run.