Simba drop points as Azam FC fight back to secure a 2-2 draw

Dar es Salaam. A late equalizer from Azam FC’s Zidane Sereri denied Simba SC a crucial victory in the ongoing Mainland Tanzania Premier League at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on February 24, 2025.

Sereri scored in the 88th minute after receiving a long pass from Feisal “Fei Toto” Salum, securing a thrilling 2-2 draw.

The newly signed Azam FC winger was later named Man of the Match despite playing only a few minutes after replacing Idd “Nado” Suleiman.

It was a shocking result for Simba players and fans, who were counting down the minutes, ready to celebrate their 17th victory in the Mainland Premier League, as they led 2-1 until the 87th minute.

His stunning strike left Simba fans in disbelief as he beat goalkeeper Moussa Camara and defender Chamou Karaboue, who attempted to stop the young star playing in his first-ever derby.

The action-packed encounter, filled with skill and intensity, saw both teams sharing points, the result favored league leaders Yanga.

Azam FC struck first, just one minute into the match, when winger Djibril Sillah capitalized on a cross from Nado. Although Simba goalkeeper Moussa Camara initially saved the attempt, Sillah reacted quickly to slot home the rebound.

That goal ignited Simba’s response, with Elly Mpanzu proving a constant threat to Azam’s defense. He equalized in the 25th minute, finishing off a brilliant pass from Kibu Dennis Prosper.

In the second half, Simba took the lead in the 76th minute when defender Abdurazam Mohamed Hamza headed in a free kick delivered from the right by Ivorian midfielder Jean Charles Ahoua.

With this result, Simba now have 51 points from 20 matches, remaining in second place, four points behind defending champions Yanga, who have played one more game.

Meanwhile, Azam FC have reached 44 points, staying in third place ahead of Singida Black Stars, who have 38 points after both teams played 21 matches.

Records show that the match was the 34th since the 2008/09 league season, with Simba dominating the rivalry statistically.

So far, Simba have won 13 times out of the 33 previous encounters, while Azam FC have won eight, with 13 matches ending in draws. In total, Simba have collected 52 points against Azam FC, while Azam FC have garnered 37 points.

Statistics further show that Simba have scored 46 goals against Azam FC, whereas Azam FC have netted 34 goals against Simba. With the league heating up, both teams will be eager to secure maximum points in their upcoming fixtures.