Simba SC failed to make their home advantage count after falling 2–0 to Azam FC in the much-anticipated Mzizima Derby played on December 7 at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
Following a balanced and goalless first half, Azam returned for the second period with more energy and purpose, piling pressure on the hosts and eventually securing two late goals that sealed the victory.
The opener arrived in the 81st minute when Jephte Kitambala calmly finished a precise pass from Nassoro Saaduni, breaking the deadlock.
Azam doubled their lead in the 89th minute through Idd Nado, who converted another well-crafted assist from the impressive Saaduni, who dominated the midfield battle throughout the match.
Simba pushed for a comeback but failed to take advantage of the chances they created, leaving their fans disappointed as the final whistle confirmed a commanding 2–0 win for Azam.
Speaking after the match, Simba Assistant Coach Selemani Matola admitted that loss of concentration at crucial moments proved costly.
“Our players lost focus, and that’s what led to conceding those goals,” Matola said. “We created chances but couldn’t convert them, and that remains a challenge for us.”
He added that despite the defeat, the overall performance was not entirely poor.
“We lost the match even though the game was within our control. Today wasn’t our day, but we will regroup and prepare for the next fixture,” he said.
