BENJAMIN Mkapa Stadium will be the stage for a crucial Mainland Premier League encounter as Simba SC welcome Azam FC, with kick-off scheduled for 7:00 PM East African Time.

With the title race heating up, this match carries significant weight for both sides.

Simba, under the guidance of Fadlu Davids, have been a formidable force this season. Their impressive record of 16 wins from 19 matches demonstrates their consistency and ambition. Notably, their defense has been a cornerstone of their success, conceding fewer goals than any other team in the league.

Offensively, they've outscored Azam by a margin of 12 goals, showcasing their firepower. Their current 12-game unbeaten streak underscores their strong form, but Azam represent a stern test.

Historically, both clubs have been dominant forces in Tanzanian football, consistently finishing within the top three. Simba's recent head-to-head record against Azam, including three consecutive wins, provides a psychological advantage.

The goal-scoring prowess of Jean Charles Ahoua and Leonel Ateba, who have collectively netted 18 league goals, will be crucial for Simba's attacking strategy.

Speaking before the match, Davids said: “This match against Azam FC is crucial for our title ambitions,” Davids stated. “We need to maintain our momentum, and a victory will bring us one step closer to our goal. However, we also have tough matches ahead against Yanga and Singida Black Stars, so we must stay focused.”

 The South African tactician expressed confidence in his squad’s recent form, noting that since their loss to Yanga, the team has remained unbeaten. “That defeat against Yanga SC was a setback, but we have bounced back strongly. These upcoming matches will test our resilience, and we must be clinical in front of goal.”

Azam, managed by Rachid Taoussi, are looking to recover from a recent dip in form. A draw and a loss in their last three outings have seen them fall seven points behind Simba, jeopardizing their title aspirations. 

Their recent goalless draw against Coastal Union highlighted their struggles in front of goal. However, they remain a dangerous team with the potential to disrupt Simba's title charge and secure a CAF Champions League spot.

Despite their recent setbacks, Azam boast a potent attacking lineup, featuring Djibril Sillah with five goals, and Iddy Selemani, Nassor Saadun, Zidane Omar, and Feisal Salum, each with four. 

Their collective attacking talent could pose a significant challenge to Simba’s solid defense.

This match promises to be a tightly contested affair, with both teams having much to play for. Simba's consistency and strong defense will be pitted against Azam's attacking threat and desire to salvage their season. Expect a high-intensity clash with significant implications for the league standings.

Simba currently sit second on the Mainland Premier League table with 50 points from 19 matches, having won 16, drawn twice, and lost just once. Azam FC follow closely behind in third place with 43 points from 20 games, recording 13 wins, four draws, and three losses.

After this match, Simba will travel to face Coastal Union on March 1 before preparing for a highly anticipated derby against arch-rivals Young Africans on March 8. Following the derby, they will shift their focus to the CAF Confederation Cup, where they will take on Al Masry in the quarterfinal first leg in Egypt.