During the Mainland Premier League clash against Yanga on March 1 in Zanzibar, Simba head coach Steve Barker opted not to start with a traditional striker.
Instead, Barker deployed attacking midfielder Inno Loemba in a false nine role, a tactical move that helped Simba dominate large parts of the match at the New Amaan Complex Stadium. The game ultimately ended in a goalless draw.
In the second half, Barker introduced striker Suleiman Mwalimu, who went on to score what appeared to be a legitimate goal. However, the goal was controversially ruled out by the assistant referee, who was later handed a six-month suspension for the decision.
Simba return to action today at 4:00 PM when they face Singida Black Stars at Airtel Stadium (Mtipa) in Singida. Barker could once again rely on a similar tactical setup that troubled Yanga in Zanzibar.
Loemba may again be tasked with leading the line as a false nine, especially with Mwalimu unavailable. The striker is currently serving a three-match suspension, with today’s match marking the second game he will miss following the FA Cup clash against B19.
Simba will also continue to be without Ghanaian forward Jonathan Sowah, whose future with the club remains unclear after he was suspended over alleged disciplinary issues.
In the match against Yanga, Loemba led the attack while Clatous Chama, Kagoma, and Kante controlled the midfield. On the wings, Anicet Oura and Libasse Guaye provided width and attacking threat from the left and right flanks.
