In Fadlu Davids’ first taste of the historic Kariakoo rivalry, Simba SC, showcased promising signs of a team on the rise despite being on the losing side.

Reigning Tanzania champions Young Africans emerged victors in the much-awaited clash. However, there is plenty Davids can build on after that narrow defeat.

Here are some of the takeaways from the match that was played in front of a fully packed Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

A REVAMPED SIMBA SC

With 14 new signings, Davids has breathed fresh life into Simba. His starting lineup in the derby featured six newcomers seamlessly integrated with experienced players.

Fadlu gave starts to derby debutants – Guinea international Moussa Camara, midfielder Deborah Fernandes Mavambo, Chamou Karaboue, Steven Mukwala, Jean Charles Ahoua and Joshua Mutale. The result was a more compact and solid midfield. Wekundu wa Msimbazi certainly looked better than they did in last season’s two league games they lost 5-1 and 2-1.

“Fantastic [performance]. Of course, we can’t maintain our playing style. That’s clear after four weeks, and I don’t expect them to,” Davids told FARPost after the game. “A lapse of concentration in the last three minutes before half-time, that was crucial in the game.”

ATTACKING INTENT AND DEFENSIVE SOLIDITY

Simba may not have created a plethora of scoring chances, but their swift counterattacks and cohesive attacking movement were noteworthy.

Considering the team’s nascent stage under a new coach, their fluidity was impressive. For stability’s sake, an experienced centre-back could still go a long way as they head into the new season. The Tanzania Premier League roars to life on 16 August 2024.

STANDOUT PERFORMERS

Deborah Fernandes Mavambo, who had attracted interest from Kaizer Chiefs before joining Simba, shone brightly. Additionally, 25-year-old goalkeeper Moussa Camara delivered a stellar performance between the posts.

For a keeper who joined the Dar es Salaam giants barely two weeks ago, the Guinea goalie was impressive. With his shot-stopping and abilities on the ball, he could go on to be an important member of Davids’ Simba.

A FOUNDATION FOR THE FUTURE

Despite the loss, Fadlu’s Simba displayed a mobility and understanding that belied their short time together. This performance suggests that with more time on the training ground, Simba could evolve into a formidable force capable of challenging Yanga’s dominance.

“Yanga is a team that has been together for three years. We’re a team that is four weeks together. But it didn’t look like it; it looks like we played really, really well in certain moments.

It’s just about maintaining the playing style, but that will come with the fitness of the team, and we will get stronger match by match,” Davids added.

Overall, Davids’ first Kariakoo Derby, while ending in defeat, provided a glimpse of a brighter future for Simba SC. With continued development under his guidance, the team could make strides towards reclaiming its place at the summit of Tanzanian football.

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