Barker delighted with Simba’s dominant display in CRDB Federation Cup quarterfinal

Head coach Steve Barker has praised Simba SC for producing a dominant and disciplined performance following their emphatic 4-0 victory over TRA United in the quarter-finals of the CRDB Bank Federation Cup.

The win at the KMC Complex secured Simba a place in the semi-finals, where they are set to face Coastal Union FC.

Speaking after the match, Barker expressed satisfaction with both the result and the style of football displayed by his players throughout the encounter. The South African tactician described the performance as one of Simba’s most complete displays in recent matches.

“It was a nice and dominant performance,” said Barker. “I thought we started the game very well by controlling the tempo of the match. It was important for us to get an early goal because it gave the team confidence and control.”

 

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Simba took the lead in just the sixth minute through influential midfielder Clatous Chama after a quick attacking move exposed the TRA United defence. The early breakthrough allowed Simba to dictate the pace of the match and continue applying pressure on their opponents.

Barker explained that his side managed to execute their playing philosophy effectively by maintaining possession, moving the ball patiently and pressing aggressively whenever they lost control.

“We demonstrated our identity and the way we want to play,” he added. “We kept the ball well, maintained pressure on the opposition and when we lost possession, we worked hard to win it back quickly.”

The Simba coach highlighted ball control and movement as the key factors behind the victory, noting that his players successfully created spaces by drawing TRA United forward before attacking behind their defensive lines.

“The key today was control of the game and control of the ball,” Barker explained. “We played through the lines very well and created spaces behind their press. Once we managed that, we were able to attack the depth of the field and create dangerous situations.”

Simba extended their advantage before halftime through forward Anicet Oura before adding two more goals in the second half to complete the commanding 4-0 victory.

With the result, they now turn their attention to upcoming league fixtures before preparing for the Federation Cup semi-final showdown against Coastal Union. Barker admitted the team must remain focused and avoid complacency as the season approaches a crucial stage.

“We look forward to the semi-final because it is always special to reach this stage of the competition,” he said. “But first we have important league matches to focus on before the FIFA break. The most important thing now is to maintain momentum, keep improving and continue working hard every day.”