Mgunda expresses disappointment as Simba Queens CECAFA exit

ADDIS ABABA: SIMBA Queens’ Head Coach Juma Mgunda expressed disappointment but remained optimistic about his team’s performance on Thursday in the CAF Women’s CL CECAFA Qualifier.

Coach Mgunda congratulated Kawempe Muslims for their performance against Simba, saying they played a robust game and that they respect their achievement, but as a team Simba remain disappointed with the result.

“Our players gave their best effort, but a few defensive lapses cost us dearly.

We struggled to break down their defence despite creating opportunities and that’s something we need to work on moving forward.

“This tournament has been a learning experience for us.

We faced tough opponents and while we didn’t achieve our ultimate goal, the lessons we have learnt will only make us stronger.

I am proud of my team for reaching this stage and I believe in their potential to grow and improve.

“We will go back, analyse our performance and focus on the areas where we need improvement.

Our journey doesn’t end here. We will come back stronger and more determined.

I want to thank our fans for their unwavering support throughout the tournament.

We are committed to making you proud in the future,” Mgunda said.

Simba Queens suffered a 2-0 defeat to Uganda’s Kawempe Muslim Ladies at Abebe Bikila Stadium in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Thursday.

As a result of the defeat, Simba Queens finished fourth in the tournament, while Kawempe Muslim Ladies claimed the third spot.

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This marked Simba Queens’ third appearance in the qualifiers, having previously participated in 2021 and 2022.

Their most notable achievement came in 2022 when they won the title and secured a place in the Champions League.

With Simba Queens finishing in fourth place, Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) FC emerged as the champions of the qualifier, clinching the title with a 1-0 victory over Kenya Police Bullets at the same venue.

Simba Queens’ journey to the finals was cut short after a narrow 3-2 loss to Kenya Police Bullets in the semi-finals. On the other hand, Kawempe Muslims were defeated 2-1 by CBE women FC.