SIMBA SC are bracing for a challenging second half of the Premier League season, despite holding a strong lead at the top of the table.

Media and Information Manager Ahmed Ally (pictured) emphasized that the ambitions of rival teams will make the title race even more competitive.

Currently leading the league with 43 points, Simba boast a formidable attack, having scored 34 goals, second only to Young Africans' 36. Defensively, they have been the best in the league, conceding just five goals so far.

Their recent 3-0 victory over Tabora United - a side that had previously stunned both Young Africans and Azam FC - further solidified their dominance. This win also completed a season double over Tabora, following a 4-0 first-round triumph.

Simba remain unbeaten in away league matches this season, with their only two away goals conceded coming in a 5-2 victory against Kagera Sugar on December 21. At home, they conceded twice against Coastal Union (2-2 draw) and suffered a 1-0 defeat to Young Africans.

Despite the difficulties ahead, Ally expressed confidence in Simba's ability to overcome any opponent, especially given their improved performances in the CAF Champions League.

Simba topped their group with 13 points, edging out CS Constantine (12 points) to advance. They now await the March draw to determine their CAF Confederation Cup semi-final opponent - Al Masry SC, Stellenbosch FC, or ASEC Mimosas - with the first leg set to be played away.

Domestically, Simba have lost just once and drawn once in the first round of the season. Ally believes this proves their capability to challenge for the Premier League title, the CAF Confederation Cup, and the Federation Cup (where they have reached the round of 32).

"The second round of the league will be highly competitive, especially with new signings made by other teams. We signed just one player, but we are happy with his immediate impact," Ally stated.

"Technically, our second-round campaign began with the match against Tabora United, a historically tough opponent. We recognize the challenges ahead and understand that competition will only intensify.

"Simba have the squad depth to compete across all fronts - Premier League, CAF Confederation Cup, and Federation Cup. We trust in our players and technical staff, and that gives us confidence," he said.

Simba face a demanding February schedule, with five crucial league matches that could significantly impact their title aspirations.

Today Simba will travel to Manyara to face Fountain Gate FC at Kwaraa Stadium. Simba have been camping in Dodoma for two days to prepare due to inadequate training facilities in Manyara.

After their match against Fountain Gate, Simba will then return to Dar es Salaam for two back-to-back home matches against Tanzania Prisons on February 11 and Dodoma Jiji on February 15, both at the KMC Complex.

On February 19, Simba will travel to Ruangwa for a clash against Namungo FC before wrapping up the month with a high-profile fixture against Azam FC at home on February 24.

Out of these five matches, two will be played away, while the other three will take place at the KMC Complex in Dar es Salaam.

With the competition heating up, Simba will need to maintain their form and consistency to stay ahead in the title race.