IN a highly anticipated NBC Premier League matchup this evening, Ihefu FC gears up to host Tanzania’s powerhouse Simba SC at the CCM Liti Stadium in Singida.

The encounter’s kickoff is set for 4 pm EAT, and both teams have a lot riding on this crucial tie. 

The home side, Ihefu SC, is desperate for points to climb away from the relegation zone, while Simba SC seeks to bounce back from a string of losses and maintain their title challenge.

Mecky Mexime, Ihefu SC’s head coach, voiced his team’s readiness for the challenging encounter, stating: “We are well prepared for this difficult game in the NBC Premier League today. We face Simba SC, the top team in NBC Premier League Despite Simba SC’s recent string of losses, we understand the quality of the opponent we’re up against.”

Discussing his squad’s current aspirations in the league, Mexime added: “Sitting in 11th place in the league standings isn’t ideal. Each match we play now is crucial, akin to a final, as we strive to maintain our position in the top tier.”

Acknowledging the absence of some players due to injuries, Mexime refrained from naming individuals but expressed confidence in the available squad, affirming: “Although we have some players sidelined, I believe in the abilities of those present to deliver positive results.”

He also urged the fans to show their support at the stadium, emphasizing: “I encourage our fans to come out in numbers and cheer us on, as their backing can make a significant difference in our performance.”

Morice Chukwu, a player for Ihefu FC, echoed the sentiments of determination ahead of the game, declaring: “We recognize Simba SC as a formidable opponent and intend to perform at our best to secure victory. Given our current position, we must deliver results, especially when playing at home to avoid disappointing our supporters.”

Simba SC enters the encounter with a favorable record against Ihefu SC, having triumphed in all their meetings since the 2020/2021 season.

Despite their recent setbacks, Simba SC remains a force to be reckoned with in the NBC Premier League, currently occupying third place.

With ambitions of contending for the silverware, the team strives to maintain momentum, having won four out of their last five matches, with one defeat against Tanzania Prisons on March 6.

Following this fixture, Simba SC gears up for the highly anticipated Dar es Salaam derby against long-time rivals Young Africans SC on April 20, promising a spectacle of intense competition.

In contrast, Ihefu SC finds itself positioned 11th, having won just one out of their last five matches, suffering three defeats and securing one draw.

Post this encounter with Simba SC, Ihefu SC is set to face Singida Fountain Gate FC in their upcoming NBC Premier League fixture.