Azam and Simba face each other in the decisive tie of the continental Premier League

Dar es Salaam. The greats Azam FC and Simba SC will meet today at 6:15 pm in the decisive match of the Tanzania Mainland Premier League at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

The match, called the Mzizima derby, is crucial for both teams as they continue to chase the lead spot in the league, until now dominated by the Young Africans (Yanga).

It is a decisive match due to three main factors. Firstly, Azam FC’s victory will allow them to remain in the title race against Yanga or secure second place, allowing them to compete in the CAF Champions League for the second time in their history.

It is also because Azam FC will be seven points ahead of Simba in the league standings, while Simba is praying for the unfavorable results of the ice cream makers and Yanga to finish among the top two teams.

Secondly, Simba’s victory will put pressure on Azam FC and Yanga for the top two positions.

This is because Simba will revive their hopes of finishing second or clinching the title if Yanga loses all their remaining matches while Simba records wins.

Arithmetically, Simba will be one point behind Azam FC with a game in hand.

Thirdly, if the match ends in a draw, it will automatically give Yanga a 99 percent chance of retaining the title for the third time in a row because the two teams will be very far from reaching Yanga’s points.

Records show that Azam FC and Simba last met on February 9, 2024 at the CCM Kirumba Stadium, where the score was 1-1, with Simba equalizing in injury time.

Records also show that the teams have so far faced each other 33 times in the Tanzanian Mainland Premier League since the 2008/2009 season, with Simba winning 13 matches, while Azam FC won eight and another 12 matches ended in draws.

Records also show that Simba are yet to beat Azam FC in two consecutive Tanzania Mainland Premier League seasons, making today’s match all the more exciting.

Simba interim head coach Juma Mgunda said they are aiming for victory to continue chasing the top position.

“We need to give our best in the game. Azam FC is a strong team that also aims for victory. But we have also prepared our players for victory,” said Mgunda.

However, Simba will miss the services of their three key players, Clatous Chama, Kibu Dennis and Shomari Kapombe, for various technical reasons.

Mgunda said his other g players are in top form and ready to maintain their winning streak in the league.

Azam FC coach Bruno Ferry said his players are in high spirits to do their best against Simba. Ferry explained that despite facing a huge task against the Simba giants, they hope to win the match.

“This is a decisive match that will give us a clear idea of ​​whether we are one of the contenders for the title or not. We are ready for battle; “We have committed players who are willing to give their best,” Ferry insisted.