Neo Maema has emerged as a cornerstone of Simba SC’s attempt to break Young Africans’ dominance in the Tanzanian League, sharing insights on how his team can regain the top spot under Steve Barker.
Simba SC has been playing second fiddle to Young Africans for the last few seasons, with their last league title win in the 2020/21 season. Different coaches have come and gone as the Wekundu wa Msimbazi seek to break Young Africans’ stranglehold on the league title.
As it stands, Simba SC are fourth on the table with 22 points from nine matches and seven games in hand. JKT Tanzania are the leaders with 28 points, while Young Africans are second with 25 points and seven games in hand.
WHAT NEO MAEMA SAID
Maema, who was loaned to Simba SC in August 2025, possesses massive experience from his trophy-laden spell at Mamelodi Sundowns. He won four league titles, made 120 appearances, and has a trophy cabinet that includes the Nedbank Cup, MTN8, and African Football League titles.
As such, he is inspirational at Simba SC. The 30-year-old has issued a rallying cry to his teammates, stating that collectiveness beats individualism if they are to entertain any thoughts of winning the league.
“They say collectively, as a unit, we need to do well. Few players can win you a game, but it’s a team that wins championships. Being a team makes for a comfortable dressing room,” said Maema.
“It’s happiness, and the boys are coming together. So that’s more important for me because I know what it takes to win a league. It’s a long journey, but sticking together will be very important for us,
Though he was on the bench when they beat Tanzania Prisons FC on Sunday, Maema said the team has shown elements of collectivism, something he learnt at Sundowns. SA star Rushine De Reuck scored one of the goals and was Man of the Match.
“Sunday’s game was great. The boys gave themselves a good account leading up to the derby, a very important match for us. We’ll obviously prepare well. We’re happy about the three points, but I’m also happy about the team spirit. I think that’s more important,” added Maema.
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