Africa-Press – Tanzania. AZAM FC will host Simba SC today in what promises to be a thrilling Mainland Premier League encounter at the Azam Complex, Chamazi in Dar es Salaam.
Both sides are determined to secure vital points that could shape their continental ambitions next season.
Simba currently sit second on the table with 34 points from 15 matches, while Azam are close behind in third place with 32 points from 16 games. With both clubs targeting spots in the CAF Champions League or Confederation Cup, the stakes could not be higher.
Speaking yesterday in Dar es Salaam, Simba Head Coach Steve Barker acknowledged the challenge ahead.
“Azam is one of the toughest teams to beat, but we are well prepared. The squad is in high spirits and ready for the game,” Barker said.
He also called on Simba supporters to turn out in large numbers, emphasising their role in motivating the team.
Meanwhile, Azam Head Coach Florent Ibenge described Simba as one of Tanzania’s top sides and expects a high-intensity clash.
“Simba reached the Champions’ League group stage, while we competed in the Confederation Cup. This will be like an Africanlevel match, so we must be at our best to secure important points,” Ibenge said.
Players from both teams share the same determination. Shomari Kapombe of Simba and Nathaniel Chilambo of Azam both expressed readiness to give their all on the pitch.
Historically, the rivalry has been closely contested. In 23 meetings, Simba have won eight times, Azam five, while 10 matches have ended in draws.
Recent results underline the competitiveness of the fixture, with Simba SC and Azam FC playing out a series of closely contested matches, including Azam’s 2–0 win on December 7, 2025, a 2–2 draw on February 24, 2025, Simba’s 2–0 victory on September 26, 2024, a 3–0 win for Simba on May 9, 2024 and a 1–1 draw on February 9, 2024.
With form, pride and continental ambitions on the line, today’s clash is set to deliver another compelling chapter in this growing rivalry.
