DENIS Kibu remains one of the most polarizing figures for Simba SC supporters. Since his 2021 transfer from Mbeya City, the energetic forward has delivered a captivating mix of brilliance and exasperation.

The consensus is clear: Kibu’s work rate is immense and his athleticism creates chaos for defenders, yet his final product is often undermined by a lack of composure and questionable decision making.

For the Simba faithful, watching Kibu (pictured) is a thrilling yet frustrating experience. His raw talent is undeniable, punctuated by moments of genius that serve as a reminder of why he is so highly rated by coaches and club officials. 

However, a recent string of underwhelming performances, particularly in high stakes encounters, has cast a spotlight on a noticeable dip in his form, raising questions about his consistency when it matters most.

While Kibu remains a key asset, his struggles in front of goal and inconsistency in crucial moments warrant a deeper look. What are the underlying reasons for this slump, and what does it signal for his future at both club and international levels?

The 2024/2025 CAF Confederation Cup final was supposed to be a crowning moment for Simba SC. Facing Morocco’s formidable RS Berkane in a two legged showdown, the Tanzanian giants were on the cusp of history. With three goals in the tournament, Kibu was expected to be a central figure in their quest for a continental title.

However, the dream began to unravel in the first leg on May 17, 2025, at the Berkane Municipal Stadium. Simba fell to a 2-0 defeat, with Kibu struggling to make a significant impact. 

In a moment that perfectly encapsulated his night and his recent struggles, he created a golden opportunity in stoppage time, skillfully cutting inside only to curl his shot agonizingly wide of the top corner. It was close, but ultimately not enough.

In the return leg on May 25 at Zanzibar's Amaan Stadium, the task was monumental. Needing a victory by at least two goals, Simba fought valiantly to a 1-1 draw, but it wasn't enough to prevent RS Berkane from lifting their third Confederation Cup trophy. 

Once again, Kibu’s performance was subdued. His substitution at halftime for Valentin Nouma was a telling tactical move by coach Fadlu Davids, underscoring the forward's inability to penetrate the Moroccan defense. 

His failure to convert key chances highlighted a persistent issue: Kibu’s creativity and effort are not being matched by clinical finishing.

Data from the CAF Confederation Cup group stage further paints a troubling picture. Kibu missed five big chances, more than any other player in the competition, despite his otherwise fantastic displays. This statistic is particularly damning for a forward expected to compete for the tournament’s golden boot.

Kibu’s dip in form has not been confined to his club duties. His recent performances for the Taifa Stars, Tanzania's national team, have mirrored his club level challenges. 

In a recent international friendly against a disciplined South African side, Tanzania's attacking struggles were evident, with Kibu unable to provide the necessary spark.

As one of the Taifa Stars' primary attacking outlets, his inability to break down organized defenses and his erratic decision making in the final third have contributed to a series of frustrating results. 

While his pace and movement remain valuable assets, his final ball and finishing have too often let him down, leaving opportunities squandered.

Several factors could be contributing to Kibu’s recent slump. The pressure of high-stakes matches appears to be a significant factor. 

The CAF Confederation Cup final was Simba’s first since 1993, and the immense expectation to end Tanzania’s long continental trophy drought may have taken a mental toll. 

At 25, Kibu is still maturing, and the psychological demands of performing on the biggest stage can affect even the most talented players.

Tactical challenges also play a role. Kibu thrives in space where he can utilize his blistering pace. However, teams like RS Berkane and South Africa, with their compact and disciplined defensive structures, have successfully neutralized this threat. 

Berkane’s well drilled backline, marshaled by the experienced Issoufou Dayo, effectively isolated Kibu, leaving him with little room to operate.

Finally, a crisis of confidence in front of goal is evident in the statistics. His goals per 90 minutes rate in the 2023/2024 CAF Champions League was a modest 0.12. 

While his three goals in the Confederation Cup show his potential, the five missed big chances point to a need for greater composure and sharper execution. This inefficiency becomes particularly glaring when compared to the clinical finishing of his counterparts.

Despite this challenging period, Kibu's potential remains undeniable. His goals in the Confederation Cup against quality opposition like Al Ahli Tripoli, CS Sfaxien, and CS Constantine are a testament to his capabilities. 

His exceptional work rate and ability to create chances for himself and others suggest he is a multi-faceted forward.

To rediscover his best form, a two pronged approach is necessary. Firstly, focusing on his mental resilience through work with a sports psychologist could help him better manage the pressures of elite level football. 

Secondly, targeted and intensive finishing drills are essential to sharpen his instincts and improve his composure in front of goal.

For Simba's coaching staff, the challenge lies in devising tactical systems that can create the space Kibu needs to thrive, even against the most compact defenses. 

If he can overcome these hurdles, Kibu has all the tools to evolve from a frustrating enigma into the clinical, top tier forward that both Simba and the Taifa Stars desperately need.