Simba SC defeated Gor Mahia 2-0 in a lively pre-season match during the club’s big Simba Day celebration.

Played at a packed stadium in Dar es Salaam, the game saw Simba take control early with goals in the first and second halves.

The win was a great way for Simba to get ready for their African and local league matches.

For Gor Mahia, even though they lost, the game was a good chance to see how their new players fit in and to prepare for their own season opener.

Overall, the match was a fun event for fans and a good warm-up for both teams.

Simba SC wasted no time in making their presence felt, seizing the lead just six minutes into the game. 

Following a well-placed free kick, midfielder Abdurazak Hamza rose above the Gor Mahia defense to head the ball past goalkeeper Gad Mathews, setting the tone for a dominant first half. 

The early goal electrified the crowd and underlined Simba’s attacking intent.

Gor Mahia, who had just arrived for the friendly, struggled to find their footing in the initial stages. 

The team, which included Harambee Stars defenders Sylvester Owino and Mike Kibwage, focused on containing Simba’s relentless attacks. 

While they showed resilience, they were unable to create significant scoring opportunities, and the first half ended with Simba holding a 1-0 advantage.

The second half mirrored the first, with Simba extending their lead early. 

In the 49th minute, Ugandan forward Stephen Mukwala showcased his goal-scoring ability, converting a precise cross from Ladaki Chasambi with a powerful first-time shot that left the Gor Mahia goalkeeper with no chance.

In an effort to turn the tide, Gor Mahia’s coach Charles Akonnor introduced several substitutions, including Alpha Onyango and Felix Oluoch. 

These changes injected new energy into the team, and Gor Mahia began to press forward. 

New signing Ebenezer Adu-Kwaw from Ghana came closest to scoring, but his shot was expertly saved by Simba’s debutant goalkeeper, Yakoub Suleiman. 

Despite the late pressure, Simba’s defense held firm, securing a clean sheet and a 2-0 win.

Beyond the action on the pitch, Simba Day 2025 was a vibrant celebration of the club and its fans. 

The event, which sold out the 60,000-capacity stadium, included live musical performances and the ceremonial unveiling of new players. 

Among the new faces were South African defender Rushine De Reuck and Guinean midfielder Naby Camara, both of whom made strong first impressions with their performances.

While the day was a huge success for Simba, it also provided Gor Mahia with valuable lessons. 

The friendly highlighted areas for improvement as they gear up for their FKF Premier League opener against Bidco United. 

For both clubs, this match was a crucial step in their preparations and a testament to the growing excitement surrounding East African football.