Two nights ago, Simba secured a 2-0 victory over Kenya’s Gor Mahia during the Simba Day festival, but head coach Fadlu Davids shifted focus to the new season, outlining a tactical approach he believes will trouble opponents.
The South African, now in his second season in charge, revealed that unlike last year when he often relied on a lone striker, he plans to consistently deploy two strikers up front.
For the first time, fans witnessed all three centre-forwards — Jonathan Sowah, Steven Mukwala, and Seleman Mwalimu — sharing minutes as the coach fine-tuned his attacking combinations, just days before the Community Shield clash against Yanga on Tuesday.
“We played well in the first half using two strikers. This is the path we want to follow this season, playing with two forwards. We have the strength of Mwalimu, Mukwala, Sowah, and not forgetting Kibu, who can also play as a number nine. With players like these, you must use them properly,” said Fadlu.
“We need to work more on our pressing structure and our defensive organization without the ball. We started with five new players, and it was a challenge to see how they handled the pressure of 60,000 fans. But I was pleased with individual performances, although winning big matches requires collective strength.”
The new starters included centre-back Rushine De Reuck, left-back Anthony Mligo, midfielders Naby Camara and Neo Maema, and striker Jonathan Sowah.
Fadlu also compared the test against Gor Mahia with the friendlies played in Egypt.
“Today was more about information — finding out which players complement each other and who balances the team. We are seeking the right harmony in this 4-4-2 diamond system, alongside other shapes we have been working on,” he explained.
Looking ahead to the Community Shield derby against Yanga, Fadlu stressed its importance:
“We’ll rest tomorrow before starting preparations for the Yanga match. It’s a big test, a final, a game of honor. After that, we will shift focus to the CAF Champions League. We’ll conduct analysis, individual and group meetings, to get everything right.”
For Simba fans, Fadlu also had a message of gratitude and encouragement:
“I believe the Premier League will allow us to play our home games here, as it gives more fans the chance to watch us. I want to thank all the supporters who came today and spent their day with us. We’ll need their support even more next week — we need half the stadium to be red. These are the big games that demand unity between fans and players. We are looking forward to it with great excitement.”
Source: Mwanaspoti
