SIMBA SC head coach Fadlu Davids commended his team’s discipline and resilience after their dramatic 1-0 victory over JKT Tanzania in a Premier League match held at the KMC Complex on Tuesday.

Substitute Jean Charls Ahoua sealed the win with a stoppage-time penalty, extending Simba’s lead at the top of the table.

“Compliments to the players for sticking to the plan and maintaining their efforts from the first minute until the end, constantly trying to score,” Davids (pictured) said in his post-match interview. “We had really zero shots against us that caused any trouble, so that’s good for us.”

Davids also acknowledged the defensive effort from JKT Tanzania, stating: “We did not allow JKT Tanzania to capitalize on counterattacks, and for that, we have to give credit to our opponents.”

He encouraged Simba fans to keep faith in the team, emphasizing: “We want our fans not to lose hope until the last minute. That’s the spirit - we will fight until the end. 

“We will never give up, and that is our mentality. That is the culture we are trying to create here. Mashujaa last minute, CS Sfaxien last minute, and today again.”

The coach also acknowledged the challenges of the hot conditions and the importance of the victory, saying: “We knew with the heat it was going to be tough, but a huge compliment to the players. We have one more to go before we switch our focus to CAF and now a tough away trip to Singida.”

The decisive moment of the game came in the 90+1 minute following sustained pressure from Simba. 

Substitute Mohamed Bakari fouled Simba defender Shomari Kapombe inside the box, and another JKT defender compounded the error by handling the ball.

Referee Kepha Kayombo promptly awarded a penalty and issued Bakari a second yellow card, resulting in his dismissal. 

Ahoua stepped up under intense pressure and sent JKT goalkeeper Yacoub Suleiman the wrong way, converting the penalty with composure to secure the victory.

Simba’s defensive discipline stood out as they allowed no significant threats from JKT Tanzania throughout the match. On the attacking front, they kept pushing for the breakthrough, demonstrating the persistence that has been a hallmark of their success this season.

With the win, Simba now lead the league with 37 points from 14 matches, maintaining a four-point gap over second-placed Young Africans, who have 33 points from 13 matches (before their match against Dodoma Jiji later yesterday). 

Azam FC and Singida Black Stars are tied with 33 points from 15 matches, sitting third and fourth, respectively.

Simba now prepare for another critical league match against Singida Black Stars on Saturday before resuming their CAF Confederation Cup campaign. 

Reflecting on the challenges ahead, Davids stated, “We knew this would be a very tough match. Now we focus on the next challenge.”

Simba’s ability to grind out results in high-pressure situations continues to solidify their dominance in the league. 

Their strong defense and relentless attack highlight their determination to retain the Premier League title and excel on the continental stage.