Simba overcome tricky JKT Tanzania to keep pace in title race

Clatous Chama continued his strong form on Wednesday, scoring the only goal in a 1-0 victory for Simba SC against JKT Tanzania to maintain their title push in the NBC Premier League.

 

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The Zambian, who made headlines around the world with his spectacular strike in the Reds’ 2-2 draw against Young Africans in Sunday’s Kariakoo Derby, was at it again on Wednesday. Just like his overhead kick against Yanga, it was Congolese attacker Elie Mpanzu who provided the assist for a finish in the JKT Tanzania penalty area early in the second half.

The title race situation for Simba and Yanga

Simba remain five points back of defending champions Yanga, who also had to dig deep to overcome last place Kinondoni Municipal Council with a 1-0 victory away from home earlier on Wednesday. Nine rounds remain in what is shaping up to be a tense final third of the league campaign.

Another element of suspense occurred shortly after Yanga’s victory over KMC. The Citizens sacked head coach Pedro Gonçalves despite an undefeated record in league matches this season. Simba had defeated their rivals in the final of the Muungano Cup (Union Cup), a competition featuring top clubs from Tanzania and Zanzibar, on April 29.

 

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For the Msimbazi Reds, they will attempt to maintain pressure on the league leaders during a period of uncertainty. Next up is another home match on Sunday against Tanzania Prisons. The Dar es Salaam giants have not lost a competitive match since January 24 in the CAF Champions League against Tunisia’s Espérance Tunis.