Simba blank Gor Mahia as coach Akonnor stumbles in first big test
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Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 10.09.25. | 23:05
Harambee Stars attacking midfielder Mohammed Bajaber did not play for Simba as he is yet to fully recover from injury
Tanzanian Premier League giants Simba SC capped off their annual Simba Day celebrations in style after registering a 2-0 victory over Kenyan champions Gor Mahia at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
The much-anticipated clash formed the highlight of the festivities, which traditionally combine entertainment, new player unveilings, and a showcase friendly before thousands of passionate Simba supporters.
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This year’s edition drew particular attention as it pitted the hosts against their East African rivals Gor Mahia in a battle of regional dominance.
The encounter began at a frenetic pace, with both teams eager to stamp their authority.
Simba wasted no time in announcing their intent, taking the lead in the eighth minute through Mohammed Hamza, who headed home a free kick.
Gor Mahia responded with urgency, pushing forward through Christopher Ochieng and Samuel Kapen.
Despite their efforts, the Kenyan champions found themselves constantly under threat as Simba’s forwards Neyo Mapema and Naby Camara, orchestrated dangerous attacks, only to be denied by swift interventions from Harambee Stars defenders Sylvester Owino and Michael Kibwage.
As the first half progressed, Gor Mahia nearly drew level through Ghanaian forward Ebenezer Adukumwa, whose delicate flick from Kapen’s delivery skimmed just over the bar.
Simba, however, continued to press, with Hamza and Kibu Dennis combining in attack, though their efforts were safely collected by goalkeeper Gad Mathews.
Five minutes before halftime, Gor introduced Austin Odhiambo to inject creativity in midfield.
The playmaker almost made an instant impact with a stinging shot that forced Simba custodian into action.
The half closed with both sides trading blows, but Simba carried a slender 1-0 advantage into the break.
Upon resumption, Simba doubled their lead in the 55th minute through Steven Dese Mukwala.
The Ugandan forward capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot home past Mathews, tightening the hosts’ grip on the contest.
Gor Mahia, however, refused to go down without a fight.
Odhiambo twice came close to pulling one back, but his efforts lacked the finishing touch.
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With time ticking away, Simba continued to probe, with newly signed midfielder Neo Maema almost marking his debut in style, only to watch his attempt fly past the upright.
The hosts threatened again in the dying stages through Naby Camara, but Gor’s defence, marshalled by Owino, stood firm to prevent further damage.
Despite late pressure from the visitors, Simba held on comfortably to seal a 2-0 victory and claim bragging rights in front of their jubilant home supporters.
