Barker hails superb Union cup win

ZANZIBAR: SIMBA SC Head Coach, Steve Barker praised his side’s composure and resilience after they edged arch-rivals Young Africans SC 1-0 in extra time to lift the Union Cup at the New Amaan Complex on Wednesday night.

The final, tense and finely balanced throughout, was decided in the 119th minute when Seleman Mwalimu converted from the penalty spot after Edmund John brought down Clatous Chama inside the box.

Clear chances were at a premium across 90 minutes, with both sides cancelling each other out in a contest defined more by structure than fluency.

Simba, however, found an extra gear in added time, gradually asserting control before delivering the decisive moment.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan congratulated Simba SC for winning the 2026 Union Cup, praising the club’s achievement and the spirit of the competition.

In a message shared on her Instagram account, she said: “I congratulate Simba Sports Club for winning the 2026 Union Cup. Beyond entertainment, sport continues to serve as a strong bridge that unites us.”

She also commended all eight clubs that took part in the tournament for what she described as displaying healthy competition and enthusiasm that continues to strengthen the spirit of the Union.

Barker said the victory reflected his team’s resilience in a difficult match.

“It was very tough. Obviously, Young Africans are a very good team, so it was a very tight game. It could have gone either way,” he said.

He admitted Simba were second best in the first half but improved after the break.

“In the first half we weren’t really good enough, but in the second half we improved. In extra time I thought we controlled the game and looked more threatening than they did,” he said.

The coach dedicated the win to the club’s supporters, players and management, while stressing the importance of quickly shifting focus to upcoming fixtures in the Mainland Premier League.

“It’s a win for the fans of Simba Sport Club. It’s a win for the players; they work really hard. I’m really proud of them, and for the management of the club,” he said.

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“But we have to look at this cup as a cup. We won that. It’s different to the league. We have to enjoy this moment, but tomorrow we’re back on the training ground. A very big game for us on Sunday.”

Barker also praised striker Mwalimu, who has been in strong scoring form throughout the competition. “Seleman Mwalimu is a striker, he wants to score goals. He’s done that throughout this tournament, so hopefully he can continue,” he said.

The victory gave Simba silverware over their long-time rivals and a boost of confidence heading into the remainder of the domestic season.

The outcome reflected a broader pattern in Simba’s campaign—measured, patient, and often decided late. Wins over Mafunzo and Mlandege followed a similar script, while Mwalimu again proved decisive in the semi-final with a commanding display.

Young Africans, by contrast, had built their run on early authority, taking control of matches in the first half against Mwembe Makumbi City and Azam before managing games with efficiency.

Individual recognition followed performances that had shaped the competition. Steve Barker was named best coach, his management reflecting the structured progression that defined Simba’s campaign.

Hussein Mbegu was recognised as the tournament’s best young player, while Selemani Mwalimu claimed the golden boot with three goals, each scored in separate matches.

Rushine De Reuck was awarded the most valuable player, his influence extending across defensive and transitional phases in a manner that shaped outcomes beyond visible statistics.