SIMBA SC, under head coach Fadlu Davids, remain firmly in contention for silverware across all competitions this season, maintaining hopes of a historic treble.

Davids (pictured) has faced the considerable challenge of integrating several new players while building a balanced squad capable of competing on all fronts. 

His efforts have yielded a consistent first eleven and a reliable supporting cast, allowing Simba to remain competitive domestically and on the continental stage.

In the CAF Confederation Cup, Simba are set to face Stellenbosch FC of South Africa on April 20 at the Amaan Complex in Zanzibar in the first leg of the semi-final. 

They have also reached the semi-final stage of the Tanzania Federation Cup and have three games in hand in the Mainland Premier League. Winning those matches would bring them within just one point of league leaders Young Africans.

The highly anticipated Dar es Salaam Derby against Young Africans is shaping up to be a title-deciding clash. 

With Simba still active in all three competitions, the possibility of a historic treble remains alive. Should they secure all three titles, this team could be remembered as the greatest in the club's history since its founding in 1936.

However, Simba’s path is not without challenges. Their congested schedule poses a significant threat to their treble hopes. 

Should they reach the CAF Confederation Cup final, their calendar will tighten even further, with the Premier League resuming on May 2 against Mashujaa, followed by matches against JKT Tanzania (May 5) and Pamba Jiji (May 8).

Of their eight remaining league fixtures, seven will be played in Dar es Salaam - an advantage considering their excellent home form. 

Simba remain unbeaten at the KMC Stadium this season and will also play the derby at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium. These home comforts may prove crucial during this high-pressure run-in.

Despite this advantage, the fixture congestion is daunting. If Simba reach the CAF Confederation Cup final, they will be required to play 14 matches in 40 days. 

This run includes league matches, Federation Cup fixtures, and continental duties - all with minimal rest, just 72 hours between most games.

Davids will need exceptional squad management to navigate this intense period. The Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) may have to revise domestic match dates if Simba reach the continental final, as the Federation Cup semi-finals and final are currently scheduled on the same days as the CAF final legs -May 17 and May 25.

Simba’s depth also will be tested. Their defense has been impressive, conceding just one goal in the FA Cup, eight in 22 league games, and four in the Confederation Cup. 

Key defenders like Abdulrazack Hamza have delivered consistently, while the midfield, led by Fabrice Ngoma and Yusuph Kagoma, has been dominant. 

The likes of Deborah Fernandez and Augustine Okejepha could play crucial roles if given more time on the pitch.

On the wings, Elie Mpanzu and Kibu Denis have been effective, while Joshua Mutale’s recent form and Edwin Balua’s potential suggest that the squad has quality reinforcements. 

Up front, Steven Mukwala has become the preferred striker, but Leonel Ateba’s return to goal-scoring form is crucial if Simba are to achieve their objectives.

Simba’s biggest challenge will be maintaining intensity and precision in both attack and defense as fatigue sets in. 

Matches against top-tier teams like Singida Black Stars and Young Africans will be physically demanding, while mid-table and relegation-threatened teams will be looking to capitalize on any signs of weakness.

Despite the odds, history has shown that treble-winning teams can emerge under immense pressure. With seven of their final league games at home and a strong defensive foundation, Simba SC, under Davids, still have the tools to make history.