IN a thrilling showdown last Saturday, Simba clinched a crucial victory against KMC Football Club, securing three vital points in the NBC Premier League clash.

The match, held at the Sheikh Amri Abeid Stadium in Arusha, Simba took an early lead in the third minute thanks to a brilliant play by Saidi Ntibazonkiza as he outwitted KMC’s goalkeeper, Denis Richard, to put his team on the scoreboard.

Despite the early goal, the intensity remained high throughout the match. Both teams displayed attacking prowess, but neither could find a breakthrough after Ntibazonkiza’s opener.

The second half saw a similar pattern with the midfield dominating the flow of the game.

Simba’s interim head coach Juma Mgunda made substitutions in an attempt to break the deadlock, bringing on Edwin Balua, Luis Miqussone, and Saleh Karabaka for Willy Onana, Ladaki Chasambi, and Ntibazonkiza respectively. 

However, the final score remained 1-0 in Simba’s favor.

After the match, Mgunda expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating: “This match is done now. We played well, although our objective today was not to win by a one-goal margin, but what’s important is securing the three points.

 “The league is getting tough. Our opponents Azam won their match with a high margin. But in football, anything can happen, so we are prepared for the next match.”

Despite the victory, Simba remain in the third position with 66 points after playing 29 matches. Their rivals, Azam, also secured a win, maintaining their second position with 66 points after defeating Kagera Sugar 5-1 at the Azam Complex Chamazi.

Looking ahead to the final league match, Simba face JKT Tanzania, with hopes of securing a second-place finish for a coveted spot in the CAF Champions League next season. 

However, Azam’s defeat against Geita Gold is essential for Simba to clinch the runners-up position.

Despite Simba fans’ disappointment at the team’s current standing, Mgunda remains optimistic. He affirmed: “In any game, the most important thing is to fight until the last minute. I believe we can finish second.”

With both Simba and Azam tied at 66 points, the goal difference becomes critical. Simba trail by eight goals, presenting a daunting challenge. Nonetheless, Mgunda remains determined to rally the team to strive for excellence in the upcoming match against JKT Tanzania.

Simba’s journey in the league has been marked by commendable performances, winning 20 out of 29 matches, with six draws and three losses. They have scored 57 goals and conceded 25. Similarly, Azam boast a comparable record, with 20 wins, six draws, and three losses, scoring 61 goals and conceding 21.

In the decisive match against JKT Tanzania, Simba must secure a victory while hoping for a stumble from Azam against Geita Gold to clinch the coveted second place. 

Failure to do so will see them joining Coastal Union in the CAF Confederation Cup next season.

As the season nears its climax, all eyes are on Simba as they aim to overcome the odds and secure their ticket to the prestigious CAF Champions League, fueled by the unwavering determination of their interim head coach and the fervent support of their loyal fans.