Simba celebrate 88th anniversary with 2-0 win over APR, earn compliments from President Samia
Simba players celebrate after scoring a goal against APR internationa friend match at the Benjamin Mkapa in Dar es Salaam on August 3, 2024. Simba won 2-0. PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- Debora Fernandez Mavambo scored in the 46th minute with a hard shot just outside the danger zone, and Edwin Balua scored in the 66th minute with a free kick taken from the right flank, marking the 16th edition of Simba Day as a success.
Dar es Salaam. One of the country’s football giants, Simba, today, August 3, 2024, marked its 88th anniversary in style with a 2-0 victory against Rwanda’s champions, APR.
The match at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium was a thrilling one, with both teams playing well throughout regulation time.
The first half saw the two teams record a barren draw, equally matched, despite Simba missing a spot kick when Steven Mukwala's penalty in the 44th minute was missed.
Simba’s head coach, Fadluraghman “Fadlu” Davids, made a few changes in the second half, leading to two goals.
Debora Fernandez Mavambo scored in the 46th minute with a hard shot just outside the danger zone, and Edwin Balua scored in the 66th minute with a free kick taken from the right flank, marking the 16th edition of Simba Day as a success.
APR made various attempts in the encounter, but a lack of concentration caused the team to not score even a consolation goal.
Entertainment
The match was spiced up with lots of entertainment from notable Bongo Flava artists led by Ali Kiba and the high-flying band, the African Stars, also known as Twanga Pepeta.
Ali Kiba perfoming during Simba at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam on August 3, 2024. PHOTO | COURTESY
The packed stadium was also entertained by Chino Kidd and Joh Makini. Ali Kiba did his best, driving the football and music lovers crazy with his famous song "Sumu," featuring Marioo, energizing the fans who sang along.
Gates Broken
Fans, frustrated by the slow entry, broke one of the gates, but the police quickly intervened and restored order, later opening more gates to allow fans in smoothly.
Ahmed Ally in Maasai Attire
The event was also thrilled by Simba’s Information Manager, Ahmed Ally, who arrived at the venue wearing unique Maasai attire. Seeming serious, Ally did not smile as he was accompanied by Maasai warriors.
Players Introduction
Before the match, Ally introduced the team players ahead of the 2024/2025 season. The players are:
Goalkeepers: Ally Salim, Ayoub Lakred, Hussein Abel, Mussa Camara, and Aishi Manula.
Defenders: Hussein Kazi, Kelvin Kijili, Che Malone Fondoh, Shomari Kapombe, Abdulrazack Hamza, Valentin Nouma, captain Mohammed “Tshabalala” Hussein, David Kameta, and Chamou Karaboue.
Midfielders: Mzamiru Yassin, Awesu Awesu, Saleh Karabaka, Deborah Fernandez, Edwin Balua, Augustine Okejepha, Ladack Chasambi, Joshua Mutale, Fabrice Ngoma, Omary Omary, Yusuf Kagoma, and Jean Ahoua.
Forwards: Freddy Michael, Valentino Mashaka, Steven Mukwala, and Kibu Denis.
Simba SC officail squad 2024/25
President Samia's congratulations
President Samia Suluhu Hassan congratulated the club on marking its 88th anniversary with a colorful celebration and for successfully registering players ahead of the next league season.
President Samia conveyed her message through the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Arts, and Sports, Greyson Msigwa, and wished the Msimbazi Street giants a successful league season.
