Former Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker has secured his second piece of silverware in Tanzania, leading Simba SC to a hard-fought victory against Azam FC in the CRDB Bank Federation Cup final.
Simba edged Azam 1-0 at the Gombani Stadium in Pemba, Zanzibar, on Saturday night to lift the trophy.
The final was decided in the 62nd minute when Azam’s Yahya Zayd scored an own goal, handing Simba a lead.
The 58-year-old mentor took over the coaching reins at Simba in December 2025, ending a historic nine-year tenure at the Cape Winelands-based outfit.
Barker penned a two-year contract with the Tanzanian giants, succeeding Bulgarian tactician Dimitar Pantev. Pantev had previously stepped in following the departure of another South African coach, Fadlu Davids, who resigned to rejoin Moroccan giants Raja Club Athletic.
Since his arrival in Dar es Salaam, Barker’s stint at Simba has been nothing short of impressive.
STEVE BARKER CRUISING NICELY IN TANZANIA
Barker’s immediate impact has already earned him individual recognition, with the tactician bagging three NBC Premier League Coach of the Month awards for February, March, and May 2026.
The Federation Cup is not his first taste of success in East Africa. In April 2026, Barker guided Simba to a memorable Muungano Cup triumph after a fierce battle against arch-rivals Young Africans SC [Yanga].
Barker’s men secured a 1-0 win in extra time, edging Yanga in a thrilling Kariakoo Derby to clinch the silverware at Zanzibar’s New Amaan Complex.
To top off a remarkable debut stint, Barker has also secured continental football for next season. Simba have already qualified for the 2026/27 CAF Champions League. This comes after the side finished as the runners-up in the NBC Premier League to champions Yanga.
Barker’s side concluded their league campaign on an impressive 25-match unbeaten run. However, they fell just short of the title, finishing with 73 points from 30 matches—a mere two points behind the league winners, Yanga.
RELATED STORY: Steve Barker secures third monthly award at Simba SC