You cannot talk about the success of Tanzanian football without mentioning Simba. As the club with the largest fanbase in the country, Simba’s success is not just domestic—beyond Tanzania, it is the most recognized club.
This is due to Simba's achievements in CAF competitions, particularly the Champions League and Confederation Cup, with this season marking their second appearance in a continental final in the club’s history.
The 2023/2024 season was not one to be proud of for Simba fans. The club finished in third place, behind their eternal rivals Yanga and Azam FC.
Many believed Simba’s golden era might be coming to an end. But as is the nature of true giants, Simba did not allow themselves to fade. The 2024/2025 season has been one of revival, reaffirming that Simba is still Simba.
Currently, Simba sits second in the NBC Premier League standings with 78 points—just one behind leaders Yanga SC, who have 79 points, both teams having played 29 matches. This makes today's final match an unofficial championship decider.
A win for Simba would secure 81 points and lift them above Yanga, who won the title last season with 80 points. This would restore pride and bring an end to Yanga’s three-season dominance. It would also mark Simba’s first league title since the 2020/21 season.
Changes That Brought Light
Unlike last season, Simba has shown a completely new face this year. The squad is packed with talent, strategies have improved, and their overall level of play has significantly risen. The number of goals scored speaks volumes—69 in 29 matches, averaging 2.37 goals per game. This is a major leap from last season's 59 goals in 30 matches, with an average of just 1.97.
The defense has also become more solid, with the team maintaining a good balance between attack and defense. Head coach Fadlu Davids, in his debut season, has brought about tremendous transformation using a 4-2-3-1 system that shifts into a 4-3-3 during attacks. This tactical setup has made Simba a disciplined, fast, and ball-dominant team.
The Star Who Lifted Simba: Jean Charles Ahoua
In every successful season, there is usually one name that stands out. For Simba, that name is Jean Charles Ahoua. The attacking midfielder from Ivory Coast has emerged as a key player, scoring 16 goals so far and leading the league's top scorers chart.
His ability to play as a number 10 or a second striker, combined with his speed, creativity in chance-making, and clinical finishing, has been a driving force behind Simba's success this season. Indeed, Ahoua is the kind of player Simba had long been missing—someone who directly influences match outcomes.
He is not alone—strikers Steven Mukwala and Leonel Ateba have each scored 13 goals. These three players have contributed 42 of the team’s 69 goals, accounting for 64.3%. These statistics affirm that Simba’s attacking line has been exceptional this season.
The Foundation for Future Success
No matter the outcome of today’s final match against Yanga, Simba fans have every reason to be proud of this season. Their team has shown real transformation, high performance, and strong motivation to win. Coach Fadlu Davids’ first season feels like the solid foundation for a new Simba aiming not just to reclaim the league title, but also to excel in continental competitions.
In this season worth celebrating, Simba SC has proven that it has no intention of living in the shadow of past glory. It is a club that learns, rebuilds, and fights for its legacy through action.
