Simba brace for stern test against Namungo in Dar

DAR ES SALAAM: SIMBA SC Assistant Coach Seleman Matola has issued a rallying cry ahead of their crucial Mainland Premier League clash against Namungo FC, cautioning that the encounter will be far from a walk in the park.

Speaking to the Press in the buildup to today’s fixture at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Matola emphasised the need for tactical discipline and mental focus, acknowledging Namungo’s reputation as one of the league’s most stubborn opponents.

“Matches against Namungo are never easy. They always make it difficult for us and tomorrow will be no different. We are preparing with caution but are fully focused on collecting all three points,” said Matola.

One of the key factors adding intrigue to the fixture is the presence of Juma Mgunda on the Namungo’s touchline, a familiar face in the Simba dugout just a season ago. Mgunda led the Reds between June and September 2024, temporarily replacing Abdelhak Benchikha.

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“Having Mgunda on their bench makes things even trickier. He knows us well – our system, our style – and that gives Namungo an edge. We respect that, but we are ready,” Matola added.

For today’s match, Simba will be without the services of defender Abdulrazack Hamza and midfielder Mohammed Bajaber, both sidelined due to injury. Despite these absences, Matola remains confident in the depth and resilience of his squad.

“We know Namungo have a strong side, but we are Simba. We are not here to drop points. This second league match is crucial — we must be ruthless,” Matola declared.

The assistant coach also touched on the team’s packed schedule, with their CAF Champions League fixture played just last Sunday.

The squad rested on Monday and Tuesday, and according to Matola, they are mentally and physically recharged. Adding a personal edge to the encounter, Simba winger, Anthony Mligo, a former Namungo player, expects a high-octane performance from his old team.

“Namungo always raise their game in big matches. I’ve prepared myself well because I know what’s coming,” Mligo noted.

Kick-off is set for today evening at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, with fans bracing for a tactical and emotional rollercoaster. Current form suggests a closely-fought battle: Namungo have won twice and drawn twice at home in their last five matches, with one away loss.

Simba, meanwhile, enter the game unbeaten in their last five, registering three wins and two draws. With both teams aiming to build early momentum in the season, expect nothing short of fireworks.

Meanwhile Simba Queens have officially unveiled Nsanganzelu Elieneza Nicolaus as the new head coach ahead of the 2025/26 Women’s Premier League season.

Nicolaus brings a wealth of experience, having held multiple roles within Tanzania’s national teams. His appointment marks a new chapter for Simba Queens, a club with a rich legacy in women’s football.

The management is confident that Nicolaus will inject fresh energy into the squad as they look to reclaim the league title. He succeeds Yusif Basigi, the Ghanaian tactician who guided the team to a second-place finish in the 2024/25 season under a one-year contract.