IN a commanding 2-0 victory over APR FC during a friendly match over the weekend, Simba showcased their strength and readiness for the upcoming season.

Striker Steven Mukwala, who has joined from Asante Kotoko of Ghana, has clearly cemented his position as the first-choice attacker under coach Fadlu Davids, setting the stage for a promising season.

During the much-anticipated Simba Day match against APR, Mukwala was granted significant playtime, overshadowing fellow attackers Valentino Mashaka and Freddy Michael Kouablan. 

Despite missing a penalty, the Ugandan international’s performance was pivotal, continuously pressuring APR’s defense and demonstrating his capability to lead Simba’s attack.

Valentino, despite coming on as a substitute for Mukwala, seems to be ahead of Kouablan in the pecking order. Mukwala’s replacement, Valentino, was later substituted in the 80th minute, allowing Freddy to play for the remaining ten minutes of the match. This sequence of substitutions underscores the intense competition among Simba’s strikers this season.

Rumors from Simba’s pre-season training camp in Egypt suggested that Davids had recommended the acquisition of an additional forward, potentially to replace Kouablan. Nevertheless, the Ivorian international remains a part of Simba’s squad, being listed for the CAF Champions League. His playing style may offer a strategic advantage, even though his goal-scoring record last season was impressive, netting 12 goals across all competitions, with six in the major league.

Kouablan’s previous stint in the Zambian Premier League saw him emerge as the league’s top scorer, boasting 14 goals in just half a season. This remarkable feat underscores his potential impact if given more playtime.

Simba’s pre-season preparations have also focused on getting striker Kibu Denis up to speed. Kibu, who missed the pre-season training in Egypt due to a break in the United States and an unsuccessful trial in Norway, appeared unfit during his brief appearance in the second half against APR FC. 

Davids has since implemented a special training regimen to help Kibu regain his fitness and match readiness. His return is seen as a significant boost for Simba, providing additional options on the wings and upfront.

Kibu’s comeback is particularly timely given the stalled transfer plans for Elie Mpanzu and the sale of Willy Onana. With Joshua Mutale and Kibu in the lineup, Simba’s attack is expected to pose substantial challenges for opposing defenses, enhancing their tactical versatility.

Following the thrilling Simba Day performance, Simba resumed training to fine-tune their strategies ahead of the Community Shield clash against arch-rivals Young Africans. This match, slated for today at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, will kick off at 7:00 pm. 

As the defending champions, Simba aim to retain their title, having clinched it last season after a draw against Young Africans in the final at Mkwakwani Stadium in Tanga.

Davids and his team have enjoyed a productive pre-season, setting high expectations for the new campaign. Simba’s ambition to dominate every competition they enter is clear, and their performance on Simba Day offered just a glimpse of the entertainment and prowess fans can look forward to this season. 

The upcoming game against Young Africans today will serve as a critical indicator of the team’s form and potential, offering fans a preview of what lies ahead. With a well-organized squad and strategic depth, Simba are poised to make a significant impact, building on the strong foundation laid during the pre-season.