The Simba SC squad has arrived in Zanzibar to prepare for their Premier League clash against their traditional rivals, Yanga SC, scheduled for Sunday, March 1, at the New Amaan Complex.
Shortly after landing yesterday morning, the team held their first training session in the evening to gear up for the highly anticipated encounter eagerly awaited by football fans across the country.
Simba head into the derby after dropping two points in Dodoma, where they were held to a goalless draw in their previous league match against Dodoma Jiji. The result has added extra pressure ahead of Sunday’s showdown for the Msimbazi Reds.
Speaking about the team’s preparations, head coach Steve Barker said they are fully focused on securing a positive result.
“We understand the importance of this match. We will prepare well, and our goal is to get the victory,” Barker said shortly after arriving in Zanzibar yesterday.
Beyond fighting for three points, Simba are also aiming to end a poor run of results against Yanga, having lost their last six matches in all competitions against their rivals.
The mood within the squad is reportedly positive, with the team showing signs of improvement since Barker’s arrival and the reinforcements made during the mid-season transfer window.
New additions strengthening the squad include goalkeeper Djibril Kasali, defenders Nickson Kibabage and Ismail Toure, as well as midfielders and forwards Inno Loemba, Clatous Chama, Libasse Gueye, and Anicet Oura.
It is expected to be a tough 90 minutes, but Simba players are eager for the challenge and have promised to restore smiles to their supporters.
