SIMBA are expected to wrap up their pre-season friendlies with a clash against Rwandan powerhouses APR on Simba Day, August 3, at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

Tanzania Mainland Premier League giants Simba will be marking their 88th anniversary with the grand 15th edition of Simba Day.

The stadium, with a capacity of 60,000, is expected to be filled to the brim with passionate fans and football enthusiasts, all gathered to celebrate the illustrious club's rich history and exciting future.

Before the main event, Simba Week will kick off on July 24, featuring various social activities such as blood donation drives and contributions to those with special needs. These activities reflect the club’s commitment to community service and engagement.

To celebrate the day, Simba previously lined up South African top-tier sides, Orlando Pirates and Sekhukhune United. However, Rwanda Premier League Champions APR emerged as heavy favorites this year according to reports from the club.

APR assistant coach Thierry Hitimana, a former Simba gaffer, said they have received an invitation from Simba which they consider a good offer to test their guns before facing Azam FC for the CAF Champions League preliminary stage.

"Our team officials confirmed to us that they have received an offer from Simba to play against them on Simba Day, an invitation we wouldn't pass on and we look forward to that day. It will give us a good test of our preparations for the CAF Champions League preliminary stage.

"Playing Simba will give us a highlight of what we should expect, especially as we head for the CAF Champions League fixture against Azam FC because these are the best teams in Tanzania. We didn't play against either of those teams at Kagame Cup, so to play Simba before the season begins will be a major bonus," said Hitimana.

According to reports from Simba, the club views APR as a good team to play against on Simba Day to give the team a championship taste before playing their semi-final match against Young Africans for the Community Shield mini-tournament slated on August 8 at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

Simba are currently in Ismailia, Egypt, where they will play various friendlies, including two this week after playing an indoor friendly last week. They aim to make amends and retain trophies after poor seasons in recent years.

The past three seasons have been challenging for Simba. Last season, the club was eliminated at the quarter-final stage of the CAF Champions League by Al Ahly. In the domestic league, they finished third in the Mainland Premier League and were knocked out of the Federation Cup by Mashujaa FC.

Despite these setbacks, the club is optimistic about the upcoming season. The comprehensive preparations and new signings are expected to bolster the team as they strive to reclaim their dominance in Tanzanian football and make a deeper run in continental competitions.

Simba Day has become a significant event for the club, not only for introducing new players but also for fostering a sense of unity and excitement among fans. The week-long celebrations leading up to the main event will further strengthen the bond between the club and its supporters.

As Simba gear up for the new season, fans eagerly await the announcements and festivities planned for Simba Week and Simba Day. The club’s commitment to community service and engagement, combined with their efforts to strengthen the squad, promises an exciting and hopeful future for Simba.