KIGOMA: MASHUJAA will host Simba today at Lake Tanganyika Stadium in Kigoma.
Simba who currently sit third in the Premier League table with 19 points from eight matches trail the league leaders, Young Africans, who have 24 points and Singida Black Stars, with 22 points.
Simba have accumulated their points through six wins, one draw against Coastal Union and a defeat to Yanga.
A win today would allow Simba to tie on points with Singida Black Stars and gain an advantage in goal difference.
However, they will still remain two points behind their arch-rival, Yanga, who also have a game in hand.
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On the other hand, Mashujaa are positioned seventh in the standings, with 13 points from eight matches.
Their record includes three wins, four draws and one loss, showcasing resilience but highlighting the need for improvement to climb the league ranks.
The last meeting between the two teams occurred at the same venue on February 3, where Simba narrowly defeated Mashujaa 1-0, thanks to a goal from Saido Ntibazonkiza.
This tense encounter lingers in the memory of the home side, instilling a desire for revenge.
Historically, the two teams have faced each other three times, with Simba winning twice and Mashujaa securing one victory; there have been no draws.
As both teams prepare for this crucial clash, all eyes will be on Simba to see if they can maintain their current form and secure an important victory.
For Mashujaa, this match presents an opportunity to assert themselves in the league and claim three vital points.