SIMBA head coach Fadlu Davids is pleased with the way his side are coming together after settling down in Egypt.

Simba jetted out of the country on Tuesday last week in preparation for the upcoming 2024/25 campaign. 

Players and members of the technical team will spend almost three weeks in the North African country, where they are expected to train and play friendly matches against some top Egyptian teams. 

Newly appointed coach Davids has a big task on his hands, with Simba needing to improve their league position after finishing 11 points adrift of champions Young Africans last season. 

In Egypt, he will have an opportunity to find new key players and inspire some of the current players to get back to their best form ahead of a gruelling 2024/25 season. 

Speaking to the club’s press, the South African coach said he is happy with the progress made after a few days of bonding and getting to know his squad. 

“The first few days are about adaptability in relation to the weather here, in relation to my physical demands that I expect from them. We are feeding them information on what is going to be useful in terms of our playing style.

“We are getting used to the players, understanding them and of course they are getting to understand us. We have done a full analysis of the squad but you only get to know the players once you see them on the training pitch.

“That is the process that we are busy with now to create our playing style, step by step to feed them information on how we are going to play, do things and so far so good.,” he said. 

After a major squad overhaul that includes ten new arrivals and more than seven exits, Simba will start the new season with a Community Shield semi-final game against arch rivals Young Africans on August 8th.

Davids also emphasized the importance of instilling a fighting spirit among his players. His primary goal is to cultivate a mindset geared towards winning every match. 

“We need to create a competitive spirit among our players,” Davids stated. “Players must fulfill their obligations and ensure they complete each task assigned to them. This should be the character of our team, helping us to create the team spirit we need.”

Davids has begun implementing his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, which involves four defenders, two midfielders, three attacking midfielders, and one striker. This system is designed to provide both defensive stability and attacking flexibility. 

“After building the players’ stamina and endurance, we are now focusing on tactical preparations,” he explained.

In addition to the tactical drills, Davids stressed the importance of unity and mutual support within the team. 

“As a team, we have to love each other and be one. Let’s fight to inspire our fans to be with us in every step we take. In this way, our fans will also increase our motivation and make us better,” he said.

In the CAF Confederation Cup, Simba will face the winners of the preliminary match between Uhamiaji FC of Zanzibar and a Libyan club. As a seeded team, Simba will bypass the first preliminary round and enter the second preliminary stage.

The second preliminary stage matches are scheduled to take place between September 13-15 for the first leg and September 20-22 for the return leg. Simba will start the first leg away and play the return leg at home. The winners of this stage will advance to the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup.

Simba’s pre-season preparations in Egypt are crucial for setting the tone for the upcoming season. With a focus on competitive spirit, tactical discipline, and team unity, Davids is optimistic about the team’s potential to make significant strides both domestically and in continental competitions. 

As the new season approaches, the fans’ support and the players’ dedication will be key elements in Simba’s pursuit of success.