Simba Sports Club General Manager, Dimitar Pantev, has expressed delight with his team’s performance after securing a hard-fought 2–1 victory over JKT Tanzania in an NBC Premier League clash played on Sunday night at Major General Isamuhyo Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
The win earned Simba three crucial points away from home, propelling them to the top of the league table with nine points, while Mbeya City sit second with eight.
Speaking after the match, Pantev praised his players for their resilience and teamwork, noting that despite a goalless first half, the team showed great composure and determination to overturn the deficit in the second half.
“We played very well and created many chances in the first half but failed to score. In the second half, we showed our character and turned the game around. I’m proud of the effort and spirit my players displayed,” said Pantev.
He added that although JKT Tanzania took the lead, Simba maintained their discipline and confidence, using their limited opportunities effectively to secure a valuable comeback win.
“It was not an easy match, but the boys remained calm and focused. These are the kind of games that test a team’s mentality, and we passed that test,” he emphasized.
Meanwhile, JKT Tanzania Head Coach, Ahmad Ally, admitted that his side faced a strong opponent but lauded his players for their fighting spirit throughout the 90 minutes.
“It was a highly competitive match. We lost concentration in crucial moments, which led to the goals we conceded. However, I’m proud of how my players fought until the end,” said Ally.
He further explained that his team selection is based on performance, fitness, and readiness rather than reputation, underscoring that every player in his squad plays an important role in achieving the team’s objectives.
