Azam, Simba draw battle lines in Zanzibar

ZANZIBAR: THE artificial turf at the New Amaan Sports Complex in Zanzibar is set to host an exciting Premier League fixture today as Azam takes on Simba in the encounter dubbed “Mzizima Derby.”

This match marks the first league encounter between the two sides to be staged outside Tanzania’s Mainland, promising to draw significant attention from the football community in isles as well outside Zanzibar.

In a pre-match briefing, Simba’s coach, Fadlu Davids, emphasised the need for improved performance compared to their recent outing against Al Ahly Tripoli in the CAF Confederation Cup.

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“We have analysed Azam’s play under their previous coach as well as the two games with their new coach, they possess a young and dynamic squad with potential players, much like our own talented team, capable of changing the game at any moment,” he stated.

However, Davids expressed confidence that his team would uplift their performance.

“To secure a positive result, we need to perform significantly better than against Al Ahly and I’m sure we can surpass our previous showing.”

On his part Azam’s coach, Rachid Taoussi, anticipated a tough match, acknowledging that encounters between these two sides are always competitive.

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“They have a strong team and high morale, especially after qualifying for the Confederation Cup group stage. However, we also have a competitive squad ready to fight for maximum points,” he remarked.

“It’s crucial for us to stick to our game plan and respect our opponents, as anything can happen in a derby.” Both teams enter the match unbeaten this season, adding to the unpredictability of the outcome.

Simba has secured back-to-back victories, beginning with a 3-0 win over Tabora United, followed by a commanding 4-0 success against Fountain Gate.

They have yet to concede a goal, scoring a total of seven in their first two matches and currently hold six points.

Azam has recorded two wins and two draws from their four matches, accumulating eight points.

Their latest triumph was a narrow 1-0 victory against Coastal Union at Azam Complex, with Nassor Saadun scoring the decisive goal.

As the teams prepare to clash, all eyes will be on the pitch to see who will emerge victorious in this highly anticipated derby with Azam sitting in the third slot of the league log while their opponents Simba are in the sixth place, a win to either side would solidify their position near the top of the table and boost team morale as they both aim for the title challenge.