DAR ES SALAAM: SIMBA Interim Coach Juma Mgunda has underscored the team’s determination to clinch a spot in the CAF Champions League for the upcoming season, highlighting their focus on the remaining fixtures of the NBC Premier League.
Speaking after a triumphant encounter against Geita Gold FC on Tuesday evening at the Azam Complex Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Mgunda expressed the team’s ambition to secure a favorable league position that guarantees qualification for the prestigious continental league.
The Msimbazi-based outfit cruised to a commanding 4-1 victory over Geita, solidifying their third position in the league standings.
Tied with Azam, both teams claim 63 points from 28 games, with each securing 19 wins, s i x draws, and three losses.
In a parallel fixture, Azam secured a crucial 2-0 win against JKT Tanzania at the Major General Isamuhyo Stadium.
The battle for the second spot holds immense significance for both Simba and Azam, as it offers a second ticket to represent Tanzania in the CAF Champions League alongside reigning champions Young Africans for the 2024/2025 season.
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Mgunda affirmed the team’s commitment to giving their all u n – til the final whistle, expressing confidence in their ability to secure positive results in their remaining encounters.
“It’s like a race. We will battle it out in our remaining matches, and in the end, we will see where we stand,” stated Mgunda.
Furthermore, Mgunda lauded the impressive performance of youngster Ladack Chasambi, who netted two goals against Geita.
“When you have young talents in your team, and they perform well, you praise them. And when they do not, you sit down with them and encourage them. Chasambi did well, and I have praised him,” remarked Mgunda.
Meanwhile, Geita Coach, Dennis Kitambi acknowledged that the game turned against his side after their player Samuel Onditi received a red card in the 67th minute. Geita remain in 15th place, second from bottom in the Premier League standings, with 25 points.
Their last two games are against Singida Big Stars and Azam FC. The outcome of Tuesday’s match-ups will determine the fate of both Simba and Azam, as they vie for a coveted spot in the continental competition.
Should either team finish third, they will compete in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Azam’s remaining matches are against Kagera Sugar on Saturday and Geita Gold on Tuesday, while Simba faces Kinondoni Municipal Council on Saturday and JKT Tanzania on Tuesday.