SIMBA Sports Club kick off a critical four-match stretch in the Mainland Premier League today as part of their preparations for the CAF Confederation Cup final first leg against Morocco’s RS Berkane, set for May 17 in Morocco.

Fresh from their successful semi-final mission in South Africa, where they secured a spot in the continental final, Simba are now focused on clearing a backlog of domestic fixtures. 

The team is set to play four league matches in 10 days - a compact schedule aimed at strengthening their Premier League title bid before departing for North Africa.

Their first assignment comes today, May 2, against Mashujaa FC at the KMC Complex in Kinondoni, with kick-off at 4:00 PM East African Time.

According to the club’s revised schedule, the next matches will be played on: May 5 vs JKT Tanzania at Major General Isamuhyo Stadium; May 8 vs Pamba FC at KMC Complex and May 11 vs KMC FC

Simba's upcoming fixtures against Singida Black Stars - one in the league and another in the Federation Cup - originally slated for May 14 and between May 16-18 respectively, are expected to be postponed due to their CAF Confederation Cup final first leg clash on May 17.

Speaking ahead of today’s match, Simba assistant coach Selemani Matola (pictured) underscored the need to approach every game with the utmost seriousness.

“We are treating this match as a final. Despite the quality of our opponents, we have prepared well and believe in our ability to earn all three points,” he said.

Midfielder Awesu Awesu echoed the sentiment, saying: “The entire squad is highly motivated. We’re treating this with the same intensity as other crucial matches. Our goal is to secure maximum points.”

Ticket prices have been set at TZS 10,000 for regular seating and TZS 20,000 for VIP A.

Simba’s CAF Confederation Cup final berth has reignited hopes for a historic treble. The Msimbazi giants are targeting the Mainland Premier League title, the Federation Cup, and their first-ever continental crown.

Currently second in the league with 57 points, Simba trail the leaders by 13 points but retain a mathematical chance of winning the title if they claim victory in all eight remaining fixtures. 

A perfect run would take them to 81 points - a tally that could secure the championship depending on rivals’ results.

In the Federation Cup, they’ve reached the semifinals and are set to face Singida Black Stars for a place in the final.

This season marks a potential turning point for Simba, following years of near misses and inconsistent performances. Significant squad reinforcements and tactical improvements under new management have given the team renewed belief.

Today’s opponents, Mashujaa, are currently 10th on the league table. The Kigoma-based side have amassed 30 points from 26 matches, with a record of seven wins, nine draws, and 10 losses. 

Known for their discipline and resilience, Mashujaa will be looking to cause an upset and strengthen their mid-table position.

As Simba enter the most decisive phase of their season, each match carries major implications - not only for their domestic ambitions but also in maintaining momentum and confidence ahead of their historic showdown with RS Berkane.