Simba, JKT Queens set for thrilling clash

DAR ES SALAAM: SIMBA Queens will face JKT Queens in the Women’s Mainland Premier League at the KMC Complex in Dar es Salaam today.

The match is expected to be thrilling, as both teams have a prominent status in the league and have been close rivals over the past three years. In that period, Simba Queens have won twice while JKT Queens have secured one victory. Notably, whenever one team wins the title, the other has finished as the runner-up.

The significance of this matchup also lies in its impact on the title race. Currently, the only teams that remain undefeated this season are Simba Queens, JKT Queens, and Gets Program. Simba Queens have won all four of their games so far, while JKT Queens have won three and drawn one.

Simba Queens, who currently sit atop the league standings for the 2024/25 season, will aim to maintain their lead, with JKT Queens closely trailing behind. The match promises to be a competitive battle, with both teams vying for crucial points that could influence their title aspirations. JKT Queens, in second place, are eager for a victory that would propel them to the top of the standings, significantly boosting their campaign.

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Ahead of the match, Simba Queens’ head coach, Yussif Basigi, acknowledged the challenge of facing JKT Queens, recognising them as a strong competitor.

“We are ready for today’s match. All my players are in good condition. We are meeting a team that is also vying for the championship, so it won’t be an easy match, but we are well-prepared,” he stated. Basigi also commended JKT Queens’ competitiveness this season.

On the other side, JKT Queens’ head coach, Esther Chabruma, expressed confidence in her team’s readiness to take on the defending champions.

“We know that Simba Queens is a strong team and as a squad, we are prepared to face the challenge. It won’t be an easy game, but we are determined to secure the three points,” she remarked.

Simba Queens’ striker, Asha Rashid, also spoke about the team’s preparation and called on their supporters to attend the match in large numbers. “We are well-prepared for the game, and we need the fans to show up and support us. Their presence will be crucial in helping us secure a win,” she said.

JKT Queens’ player, Janeth Pangamwene, echoed her coach’s sentiments, expressing confidence in her team’s ability to compete for a win. “It’s a big and competitive match, but we feel no pressure. We believe in ourselves and are ready to fight for the three points. We can win and top the league,” she stated.