SIMBA SC head coach Fadlu Davids has expressed his pride in his players following their commanding 3-0 victory over Namungo FC in their Mainland Premier League match played at Majaliwa Stadium.

The Msimbazi Street-based side secured the win through two penalty kicks, marking a crucial away triumph.

“Playing away from home in a difficult stadium, where we’ve previously drawn matches, made this victory even more significant,” Davids (pictured) stated. “To change that history with three goals and a clean sheet, I’m very proud of the players.”

The South African tactician emphasized the team’s unity and discipline, particularly in penalty-taking situations. 

“Jean Charles Ahoua took the first penalty, Ateba the second, and Ahoua stepped up again for the third. It shows the mutual understanding within the squad. There’s no selfishness, only brotherhood. It’s about who feels confident enough to take the penalty,” he said.

He also highlighted his players’ intelligent movement and execution, which created the goal-scoring opportunities. 

“My players made fantastic runs behind the defensive line, which led to the penalties and crucial moments in the box. It was a really good performance from them,” he added.

With this victory, Simba have now accumulated 50 points from 19 matches, closing the gap on their arch-rivals Young Africans, who lead the standings with 52 points from 20 matches. 

The Msimbazi giants have registered 16 wins, two draws, and one loss, scoring 41 goals and conceding only six, making them the team with the best defensive record in the league so far.

On the other hand, Young Africans have won 17 matches, drawn one, and lost twice, scoring 52 goals and conceding nine. However, they have played one game more than Simba SC, keeping the title race highly competitive.

Simba’s goals all came from set-piece situations, with Ahoua scoring twice from the penalty spot in the 48th and 72nd minutes, taking his season tally to 10 goals, equalling Young Africans’ forward Clement Mzize.

Ugandan striker Steven Mukwala sealed the win in stoppage time (90th minute) after receiving a well-timed assist from Valentino Nouma.

However, Simba could have added another goal in the 53rd minute, but Leonel Ateba’s penalty was saved by Namungo goalkeeper Jonathan Nahimana.

Following the emphatic victory in Ruangwa, Simba now shift their focus to their next crucial league fixture against Azam FC on Monday, February 24, at KMC Complex Stadium.

This match holds significant importance in Simba’s campaign as they aim to reclaim the Premier League title. Historically, Azam have been a challenging opponent for Simba in previous seasons, often disrupting their title ambitions.

However, Simba already secured a victory against Azam FC in the first-round encounter, and they are determined to complete a league double over their rivals by securing another three points.