SIMBA SC head coach Fadlu Davids has attributed his team’s failure to secure the NBC Premier League title to the disparity in individual player quality compared to their rivals, Young Africans SC (Yanga).

Speaking after Simba’s 2-0 defeat in the highly anticipated Dar es Salaam derby at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Davids acknowledged Young Africans’ superior match winners as the decisive factor.

The loss, which came in Match Day 184 of the 2024/25 Mainland Premier League, saw Simba once again fall short against their traditional rivals. Goals from Pacome Zouzoua, via a penalty, and young striker Clement Mzize sealed the victory for Young Africans in the second half.

"It’s clear today that the better team won. Yanga have more players who can make a difference in big matches, and that’s something we need to address moving forward," Davids (pictured) said during his post-match remarks.

While he admitted that he has made strides in shaping a competitive Simba side, the South African tactician was candid about the work still to be done.

"I’ve built a solid team foundation, but it’s not enough. We need to bring in more players with the mentality and quality to change the outcome of big matches. That’s where the real gap lies between us and Yanga," he stated.

The latest defeat has intensified Simba's winless streak in recent league clashes with Young Africans, underscoring the need for squad enhancements. Despite the loss, Davids found solace in some positives from the campaign.

"One thing we can be proud of is securing second place, which guarantees us a return to the CAF Champions League next season," he said. "Also, reaching the CAF Confederation Cup final this season is a significant milestone, showing the potential of this group."

Looking ahead to the transfer window, Davids urged Simba’s management to support his plans for recruitment.

"I believe the leadership will back me during the upcoming transfer period. We need reinforcement - players who fight, who bring energy, and above all, who can deliver in pressure situations," he emphasized.

He also pointed out that external factors had affected the club's momentum during the season.

"There were a lot of off-the-pitch challenges that didn’t go our way. It was frustrating, but we will sit down with the management to plan the way forward," Davids explained. "We’ve laid the foundation; now we need to add power and precision."

Meanwhile, Simba captain Mohammed Hussein, popularly known as ‘Tshabalala’, expressed gratitude to the club’s supporters and stakeholders despite falling short of their goals this season. He issued an emotional message following the team’s final league match of the season, which ended in defeat to Young Africans.

“First and foremost, I thank the Almighty for granting us the strength to begin and conclude the league safely. I also extend my heartfelt appreciation to our leadership - Board Chairman Mohammed Dewji, Vice Chairman Murtaza Mangungu, the entire technical team, management, club members, and our dedicated supporters,” said Tshabalala.

He acknowledged that although the season didn’t end as they had hoped, the dedication of the fans remained unwavering.

"To our fans, I don’t even know how to express my deepest gratitude for your immense love and loyalty. Truly, we owe you. Your energy, your presence under the scorching sun or pouring rain - you were there. You never gave up on us during the tough times. May God bless you abundantly," he stated.

"You are the true heroes. The end of this season marks the beginning of preparations for the next. We will not rest; we will continue to fight to bring you joy."

Simba will now regroup during the off-season as they prepare for the 2025/26 campaign, with the CAF Champions League qualification offering them a new path to redemption. But for Davids and his technical team, the message is clear: reinforcement is non-negotiable if Simba are to close the gap and reclaim domestic dominance.