Simba back in league action for the first time after 49 days

Dar es Salaam. After an intense semifinal match in the CAF Confederation Cup, one of Tanzania’s football giants, Simba SC, returns to the local league today as they face Mashujaa FC at the KMC Complex in Dar es Salaam.

Simba advanced to the CAF Confederation Cup final with a 1-0 aggregate victory over South African side Stellenbosch FC on April 27 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa.

Today’s match is scheduled to kick off at 4.15pm and is expected to be a thrilling encounter due to the current standings of both teams in the league table.

Simba are currently second in the NBC Premier League standings with 57 points from 22 matches, trailing league leaders and defending champions Young Africans (Yanga) by 13 points.

Meanwhile, Mashujaa FC sit in 10th place with 30 points from 27 matches. A win for Mashujaa would improve their chances of avoiding relegation.

The Msimbazi Street giants have not featured in the domestic league for about 49 days. 

Their last Premier League match was played on March 14 against Dodoma Jiji FC, also at the KMC Complex, where they recorded an emphatic 6-0 victory.

Speaking ahead of the match, Simba assistant head coach Seleman Matola acknowledged the team’s tight schedule and the challenge of returning to league action after their CAF commitments.

“We are just coming from a tough CAF Confederation Cup match, and my players have only had time for a recovery session. We know the match will be difficult, but we need the victory in order to reduce the gap at the top of the table,” said Matola.

He added that the technical bench is aware of Mashujaa FC’s strength and that they are treating the match with the seriousness of a final.

“Our players understand the importance of this game and have promised to fight hard to get the win. We are now back in the league, and we know that our main rivals, Yanga, are ahead of us by 13 points.

To close the gap, we must win every remaining match. We have prepared our players accordingly to deliver their best,” said Matola.

On the other hand, Mashujaa FC head coach Salum Mayanga said his side has prepared thoroughly for the match and is determined to upset the giants.

“We have come to collect all three points. Despite the fact that Simba are a big team with many great players, that does not guarantee them victory. My players are ready and will give their best,” said Mayanga.

 The match is seen as crucial for both teams—Simba in their quest to catch up with Yanga, and Mashujaa in their bid to avoid relegation as the league enters its final stages.