Simba head coach Steve Barker faces his first major test today since taking charge of the Simba squad, inheriting the role left by his predecessor Dimitar Pantev.
This comes in the semifinal match of the Mapinduzi Cup against Azam FC, set to be played at the New Amaan Complex stadium in Zanzibar.
Simba booked their place in the semifinals after finishing top of Group B, defeating Zanzibar sides Muembe Makumbi and Fufuni.
However, one could argue that the level of competition in those previous matches was not as strong compared to today’s encounter against Azam FC.
The match also carries a sense of revenge for Simba following their defeat to Azam FC in the Premier League earlier in December 2025.
It is a high-pressure fixture, and Barker will need to carefully plan his tactics to ensure Simba win the match and advance to the final.
Azam FC, coached by Florent Ibenge, have shown this season that they possess a highly competitive squad and are also targeting silverware.
As a result, the match brings together two coaches, each eager to reach the final and secure a chance to lift the tournament trophy.
Simba will go into the match strengthened by the return of several players who missed previous games and have now arrived in Zanzibar.
Jonathan Sowah, Elie Mpanzu, Jean Charles Ahoua, and Steven Mukwala are all part of the squad, and Barker may deploy them in this crucial encounter.
