Dar es Salaam. Tanzania Mainland Premier League giants Simba and Azam FC failed to close the gap on defending champions Young Africans (Yanga) after both sides were held to goalless draws in matches played today at different venues.
Simba were frustrated by TRA United in a barren draw at the Sheikh Amri Abeid Stadium in Arusha, while Azam FC also settled for a 0-0 result against Mbeya City at the Tanzanite Kwaraa Stadium in Manyara Region.
The results leave Simba in second place with 36 points from 17 matches, still trailing leaders Yanga, who have amassed 44 points from 18 matches. TRA United remain seventh with 24 points from 18 outings. Azam FC stay third with 34 points after 18 matches, while Mbeya City sit 12th with 17 points.
The stalemates handed Yanga a significant advantage in the title race, stretching their lead to eight points ahead of Simba and 10 ahead of Azam FC. The gap places the Jangwani Street giants in a comfortable position at the top of the standings as the season heads into a crucial phase.
Even if Simba win their upcoming fixtures, including a direct clash against Yanga, they would still face a points deficit, underlining the magnitude of the task ahead.
In Arusha, the Simba-TRA United match started at a quick pace, with both teams showing attacking intent from the opening whistle. Simba were the first to threaten, creating early chances that highlighted their desire to take control. However, poor finishing let them down, with Anicet Oura twice firing wide from promising positions just outside the box.
Simba continued to press, and Seleman Mwalimu came close to breaking the deadlock, only to see his powerful effort crash against the goalpost. The missed chances allowed TRA United to grow into the contest and respond with attacks of their own.
The hosts tested Simba’s defence with quick transitions and forward runs, creating two clear chances but failing to convert. They thought they had taken the lead in the 37th minute when Valentine Nouma scored, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with both teams pushing forward but lacking the clinical edge in front of goal. In the end, neither side could find a breakthrough, settling for a share of the points.
For Simba and Azam FC, the dropped points could prove costly in the title race, while Yanga continue to strengthen their grip at the summit.
