Simba have been eliminated from the Mapinduzi Cup in Zanzibar after suffering a 1–0 defeat to Azam FC in the semifinal match.
An early second-half goal scored by defender Lameck Lawi ended the hopes of coach Steve Barker’s side of reaching the final of the tournament.
Simba dominated much of the match but struggled to break down Azam FC’s defense, as their opponents relied mainly on counterattacks and set pieces.
This marked the second consecutive defeat for Simba against Azam FC, following their loss to the “Ice Cream Makers” in the Premier League.
Despite his team’s exit from the competition, Barker gained a valuable opportunity to assess his squad, and the club’s management is expected to act on his recommendations to strengthen areas that need improvement.