AT the start of the season, few Simba SC fans expected their team to excel both domestically and internationally by midseason. Yet, Simba sit atop the Premier League with 40 points and have secured a CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinal spot as Group A winners with 13 points.

The arrival of new players, including standout performers Jean Charles Ahoua and Leonel Ateba, has rejuvenated the Msimbazi Street giants. 

Simba, who had gone three seasons without winning the Mainland Premier League or making a significant mark in the CAF Confederation Cup, were not seen as title contenders this year. 

Even the club's management admitted they were in a rebuilding phase, aiming for future success.

However, Simba’s chief scout, Mels Daalder (pictured), has revealed the strategy behind the signings that have fueled the club's resurgence. 

Among these, Ahoua has been instrumental, leading the team in scoring with seven goals across competitions.

Daalder explained that the recruitment process was a collaborative effort involving key figures, including Board Chairman Mohammed Dewji. The objective was to identify young, talented players capable of serving the team long-term.

Out of the 15 new players added this season, 13 were handpicked through this process. Daalder noted that the recruitment aimed to restore Simba’s competitive edge after a three-season slump.

"The players we signed have brought remarkable energy to the team. Ahoua, for example, has scored seven goals, including two in the CAF Confederation Cup and five in the Premier League. 

“Ateba has also made a significant impact with five league goals, two in the FA Cup, and multiple assists," he said.

The club’s strategic approach extended to the mini transfer window, where only one addition, Ellie Mpanzu, was made. Daalder highlighted the rationale behind this decision, emphasizing the importance of stability and player development.

"Building a team requires patience. We only brought in Mpanzu because he was a player we identified as necessary since the main transfer window. This allows the coach to work with the current squad and assess areas for improvement before the offseason," he explained.

Daalder also revealed that preparations are already underway for next season, with a focus on bolstering the squad for the CAF Champions League.

Under coach Fadlu Davids, Simba have seen remarkable squad utilization, with 90% of the 30-man roster receiving playing time. 

Notable exceptions include David Kameta, Hussein Kazi, and Omary Abdallah, who have struggled to break into the starting lineup.

The goalkeeping department remains largely unchanged, with Moussa Camara as the first choice and Ally Salim featuring in the Federation Cup. 

Aishi Manula, however, has yet to make a competitive appearance this season.

Simba’s success this season is a testament to meticulous planning and execution. With their eyes set on reclaiming the Premier League title and making a deeper run in continental competitions, the Msimbazi giants are poised for greater achievements.

As Daalder noted: “We believe we can win the title and secure a return to the CAF Champions League. For that, we’ll need players with extraordinary abilities. The journey of improvement continues, and we’re ready for the challenges ahead.”