Simba's new midfielder Jean Ahoua eager to make an impact after promising start

By Nassir Nchimbi , The Guardian
Published at 06:00 AM Aug 22 2024
news
Photo: Courtesy of Simba
Jean Charles Ahoua

SIMBA SC's newly-signed midfielder Jean Charles Ahoua has expressed his enthusiasm for making a significant impact on Tanzanian football after a promising start to his career with the Msimbazi Street-based side in the NBC Premier League 2024/2025 season.

Ahoua made an impressive debut for Simba, providing an assist for the team’s first goal in their 3-0 victory over Tabora United over the weekend. The win follows a successful transfer window for the club, with the addition of the Ivorian midfielder further strengthening their already formidable squad.

Despite the victory, Simba's attack raised some concerns. Steven Mukwala, Ahoua, and Joshua Mutala faced challenges in making decisive passes in the midfield, allowing Tabora United's defense to maintain some control. However, with the season still young, Ahoua remains confident that he and his teammates will soon find their rhythm.

Named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the Ivory Coast Ligue 1 last season, Ahoua has quickly settled into his new environment at Simba and is determined to make a lasting impact. 

The midfielder has already shown flashes of his talent in pre-season and is eager to contribute to the team's success.

Expressing his excitement for the season ahead, Ahoua acknowledged the challenges of integrating with new teammates but emphasized his commitment to understanding and implementing Coach Fadlu Davids' philosophy.

"The early focus has been on starting the competition well while we form a cohesive partnership and combinations going forward," Ahoua said. "Our fans will soon see even better performances from me and my fellow players as we continue to gel."

Ahoua also shared his enthusiasm for experiencing the intensity of the Mainland Premier League and the competitive nature of Tanzanian football. He expressed confidence in the team's ability to improve and deliver outstanding performances for their fans in the coming weeks.

"We are still early into the new season, and while we are getting used to each other, I believe that in a few months, we will have a strong team with the quality we possess both as a team and individually," Ahoua added.

The midfielder praised the team's strength and depth, emphasizing their potential to compete for titles both domestically and internationally. 

"We have a very strong squad with excellent players who can achieve our goal of winning titles this season and reaching the advanced stages of the CAF Confederation Cup," he said.

Ahoua's comments highlight Simba's focus on building chemistry and implementing the coach's strategies as they strive for success in the upcoming season. 

While the result against Tabora United was positive, Simba will need to improve their midfield play to maintain their winning momentum in the league.

Simba's next match is against Singida Black Stars at KMC Stadium on Sunday. 

The visitors will be heading into this match after securing a 3-1 win against Ken Gold FC at Sokoine Stadium last week.