Fresh concern has emerged among Simba supporters following an injury to their first-choice goalkeeper, Mahamadou Kassali, raising further alarm over the recurring injury problems that have affected the club’s goalkeepers at the start of recent seasons.
Kassali, a Nigerien international, picked up the injury two days ago during Simba’s 2-0 victory over Kagera Sugar in a Tanzania Mainland Premier League match played at Kaitaba Stadium in Bukoba.
The goalkeeper was forced off with 10 minutes remaining after injuring his right knee while jumping to save a cross delivered from the right wing.
Images of the goalkeeper being carried off the pitch with his knee bandaged brought back painful memories for Simba fans, considering that he is the fifth goalkeeper to suffer a similar injury in recent seasons.
The injury curse first struck former first-choice goalkeeper Aishi Manula in 2023, when he suffered a hip problem that kept him out for the entire 2023/24 season.
Simba subsequently signed Brazilian goalkeeper Jefferson Luis in July 2023, but he injured his knee during the club’s pre-season camp in Turkey before the season had even begun, leading to the termination of his contract.
The problems continued with the next goalkeeper, Moroccan international Ayoub Lakred, who suffered a leg injury during preparations for the 2024/25 season in Egypt.
His place was taken by Moussa Camara, who also suffered a knee injury on September 28, 2025, against Gaborone United and was forced to undergo surgery in Morocco.
Even second-choice goalkeeper Yakoub Suleiman, who subsequently stepped into the role, suffered a knee injury while with the national team, Taifa Stars, during preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The situation forced Simba to enter the transfer market during the mid-season window and sign Kassali.
Despite the growing concern, Simba Information and Communications Manager Ahmed Ally has moved to reassure supporters, explaining that Kassali’s injury is not as serious as initially feared.
“Kassali underwent preliminary tests that same night after the match to determine the extent of the injury. Fortunately, doctors have confirmed that he suffered an injury to the structures on the side of the knee (lateral meniscus/ligament). The injury is not serious, he does not require surgery and will not be sidelined for a long period,” Ahmed Ally said.
Ahmed added that the goalkeeper will miss today’s match against Pamba Jiji at CCM Kirumba Stadium in Mwanza, but could return on Saturday when Simba face Singida Black Stars at Airtel Complex in Singida.
