Today, Simba fans will watch their team take on traditional rivals Yanga at the New Amaan Complex Stadium in Zanzibar in the Community Shield.
It is another important match for Simba as they seek victory, lift the Community Shield and maintain coach Steve Barker’s impressive record against Yanga.
Since Barker arrived at Msimbazi, Simba have never lost to Yanga, recording one win and two draws.
With a large part of last season’s squad still intact, Barker is expected to lead a Simba side that has also been strengthened during this transfer window.
Several new players could make their Kariakoo Derby debuts today.
Attacking midfielder Ibraheem Jabaar and winger Keletso Makgalwa have quickly adapted to Barker’s system and could be given opportunities in today’s match.
Jabaar is likely to start in the No. 8 midfield role, replacing Alassante Kante, who is not part of the squad.
Aside from those players, Barker’s starting XI is unlikely to undergo major changes. The only area that has required a significant adjustment is the right side of defence following captain Shomari Kapombe’s shoulder injury during the CECAFA Kagame Cup.
David Kameta ‘Duchu’ is ready to fill that position, although Simba have also added Nathaniel Chilambo during this transfer window, and he is available for selection by Barker.
Most of last season’s key players remain available, including goalkeeper Djibrilla Kassali, Kibabage, Rushine, Toure, Kagoma, Libasse, Chama, Oura and Mpanzu.
Mpanzu could start in the ‘false 9’ role, while new striker Ibrahim Doumbia is also expected to get some minutes in what promises to be a fiercely contested encounter.
Simba head into the match with an advantage in terms of squad continuity, as they have made fewer changes to both their playing squad and technical bench compared with Yanga, who have brought in numerous new players as well as a new coaching staff.
