Simba Coach commends his team: Each match counts

ZANZIBAR: SIMBA SC Head Coach Steve Barker said his team are fully prepared for their today’s Mapinduzi Cup Group B match against Fufuni SC at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar.

Barker made the comments to reporters after their 1–0 victory against Muembe Makumbi in their group opening match, stressing that his side had analysed their performance and worked carefully to improve ahead of the today’s clash.

“This match is very important for us. We reviewed our last game, identified areas that needed improvement and focused on correcting them. The team is well prepared and ready to perform,” Barker said.

The South African coach noted that the competitive nature of the Mapinduzi Cup leaves little margin for error, adding that Simba are approaching the fixture with full concentration and respect for their opponents.

Barker added that continued progress will be key as the tournament unfolds, calling on his players to show development both individually and as a unit.

“Every match in this tournament carries weight. There is no room for complacency. We must stay focused, respect the opposition and execute our plan.

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“We want to keep growing as a team, improving day by day and match by match,” he noted.

While insisting Simba treat all fixtures seriously, Barker acknowledged the added importance of Monday’s contest, describing it as potentially decisive in the race for the semifinals.

“Today’s result is vital if we want to stay on course to reach the semi-finals and compete for the cup,” he said.

Simba opened their Mapinduzi Cup campaign with a narrow 1–0 win over Muembe Makumbi at the same venue, with Mohammed Bajabir scoring the decisive goal to give the Tanzanian giants an encouraging start.