Azam, Simba in action as fight for Champions League slot hots up

Dar es Salaam. The race to secure the second spot and represent the country in the CAF Champions League next edition for Azam FC and Simba continues today as the Tanzania Mainland Premier League progresses at three different venues.

Azam FC, currently in second place, will take on JKT Tanzania at the Major Isamuhyo ground in Mbweni, Dar es Salaam, from 4pm, while Simba will host Geita Gold FC at Azam Complex from 7pm.

Another match will be between Kagera Sugar and Coastal Union, scheduled to start at 7pm at Kaitaba Stadium, Kagera. Currently, Azam FC hold second place with 60 points from 27 matches, the same as Simba, who are in third place, but the two teams differ on goal difference. Azam FC have a goal difference of 34, while Simba have a goal difference of 28.

Yanga have already clinched the title with a total of 71 points, which none of the 15 participating teams can reach.

As per the current Mainland Tanzania Premier League standings, it is clear that Azam FC and Simba need victories in today’s matches to remain competitive for the second spot and qualify for the African Champions League next season.

However, Azam and Simba face tough challenges today due to the positions of the teams they are facing. JKT Tanzania, who will face Azam FC, are currently in ninth place with 31 points after 27 matches and need a win to avoid relegation.

According to the standings, 11 teams can either face relegation or feature in the playoff stage against the winner between Biashara United of Mara and Mbeya Kwanza, who are currently in that stage through the Championship league.

As of now, Mashujaa, in 13th place with 26 points, and Tabora United, with 26 points in 14th place, have a high chance of playing in the playoff stage for the Mainland Tanzania Premier League teams.

Regarding Geita Gold FC, who will meet Simba today, they need a win to avoid relegation.

So far, Geita Gold FC has accumulated 25 points and can reach a total of 34 points, which could save them from relegation.

Azam FC assistant coach Youssoupha Dabo said that the match is going to be very tough but added that his players are in high spirits to face the challenge. He said JKT Tanzania are strong side, but their primary task is to win the game and improve their chances in the league standings.

“We will have to play with determination against JKT Tanzania, who are a strong team,” said Dabo.

JKT Tanzania head coach Malale Hamsini said he is confident that his team will win the game.

“I am looking forward to winning this match. My players will be 100 percent committed on the pitch. I understand that we are going to face one of the best teams in the league, so we need to be perfect,” said Hamsini.