SIMBA SC head coach Fadlu Davids has hailed his team’s impressive performance following their emphatic 6-0 win over Kilimanjaro Wonders in the Round of 64 of the Federation Cup at the KMC Complex in Dar es Salaam.

Speaking after the match on Sunday, Davids said: “Though we played an opponent who is far below us in terms of quality, they tried their best to challenge us. It was a nice match, but in the end, quality made the difference.”

The coach highlighted the significance of the match as an opportunity to give playing time to some of the squad’s less utilized players. 

“We have a lot of good players, and everyone needs a chance to show their talent. I was impressed by how they performed today. The only player we missed was Aishi Manula, who is unwell with the flu,” Davids added.

Turning his attention to Simba’s next task, Davids emphasized the importance of focusing on their upcoming Premier League clash against Tabora United. 

“It will be a tough match, but we are determined to continue our good form,” he stated.

Simba wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Valentino Mashaka scoring just 18 seconds into the match setting a record for the fastest goal in this stage of the competition. 

The early strike came from a precise cross by left-back Valentin Nouma, signalling the start of a one-sided encounter.

The floodgates opened soon after, with attacking midfielder Ladack Chasambi doubling the lead in the third minute. 

Chasambi finished off a well-placed cross from right-back David Kameta ‘Duchu,’ who had won the ball with a strong challenge before delivering the assist.

Kilimanjaro Wonders’ woes continued in the ninth minute when defender Patrick Sebastian inadvertently deflected Nouma’s shot into his own net. 

Joshua Mutale added a fourth goal in the 21st minute, putting Simba firmly in control with a commanding 4-0 lead at halftime.

In the second half, the onslaught continued as Steven Mukwala scored the fifth goal with a powerful header from another Duchu cross. Substitute Edwin Balua sealed the rout with a sixth goal, completing a dominant display by the visitors.

Despite Simba’s superiority, Kilimanjaro Wonders attempted to fight back with a series of attacks early in the second half. However, Simba goalkeeper Ally Salim stood tall, making crucial saves to deny the home team any consolation.

By the final whistle, Simba had not only secured their place in the Round of 32 but also set two records: the fastest goal of the tournament so far and the highest scoreline in the Round of 64.

In the absence of several first-team regulars, Davids utilized the match to showcase the depth of his squad. Players who rarely feature in the starting lineup delivered impressive performances, proving their readiness to contribute when called upon.

Simba’s victory makes them the 32nd team to qualify for the next stage of the competition. Other teams joining them include rivals Young Africans (Yanga), Azam FC, Coastal Union, Singida Big Stars, and Mashujaa FC. 

The Round of 32 promises thrilling encounters as top teams continue their quest for silverware.

Simba will now turn their attention to the Premier League, where they face Tabora United in what Davids described as a challenging match. 

The team will aim to maintain their winning momentum and further solidify their position in domestic and continental competitions.

The following teams have qualified for the Round of 32: Green Warriors, Coastal Union, TMA Stars, Leo Tena, Mbeya City, Songea United, Cosmopolitan FC, Mtibwa Sugar, Polisi Tanzania, Fountain Gate, Stand United, Azam FC, Town Stars, Bigman FC, JKT Tanzania and Kiluvya FC.

Other teams are Namungo FC, Giraffe Academy, Mambali Ushirikiano, Geita Gold, Pamba FC, Tanzania Prisons, Transit Camp, Kagera Sugar, Biashara United, Mbeya Kwanza, KMC FC, Tabora United, Singida Big Stars, Young Africans, Mashujaa FC and Simba.

Simba’s dominant display serves as a warning to their competitors as they look to build on their stellar form in both domestic and continental competitions.