Dar es Salaam. Ugandan forward Steve Mukwala once again proved his worth for Simba SC, scoring the solitary goal in a hard-fought 1-0 win over Singida Black Stars in a rescheduled NBC Premier League match played on Wednesday, May 28 at the KMC Complex in Mwenge, Dar es Salaam.
Mukwala, who is currently in red-hot form, continued from where he left off in the previous league match by netting his 12th goal of the season his third in just two crucial games for Simba.
Starting ahead of Leonel Ateba for the second consecutive match in all competitions, Mukwala ensured Simba secured a vital three points that reduced the gap between them and league leaders Yanga from four to just one point.
His goal came in the 43rd minute, thanks to a perfectly-timed assist from veteran right-back Shomary Kapombe.
Mukwala displayed exceptional composure, dribbling past Singida goalkeeper Obasogie Amas before calmly slotting the ball into the net sending the Simba faithful into celebration before halftime.
Despite missing two clear chances in the opening 30 minutes, Mukwala’s pace and movement caused constant problems for the Singida defence marshalled by Frank Kwabena and Anthony Tra.
His relentless pressing and incisive runs forced the Black Stars’ backline to stay on high alert throughout the first half.
Singida had their own moments, most notably through Kwame Sowah who squandered two promising opportunities before the break one of which ended controversially after he was brought down in the box.
However, the referee waved play on, sparking protests from fans who felt it was a clear penalty.
In the second half, Singida made a double substitution, including the removal of Kelvin Nashon who was already on a yellow card for Damaro.
The changes injected more energy into their midfield and allowed them to pile pressure on Simba’s defense.
But Simba coach Fadlu Davids responded tactically, substituting forward Ellie Mpanzu for central defender Abdulrazak Hamza.
That switch allowed Simba to shift from a two-man central defense to a back three consisting of Chamoe Karaboue, Che Malone, and Hamza tightening their grip at the back.
The tactical shuffle freed fullbacks Mohammed Hussein and Kapombe to push forward, adding width to Simba’s attacks while reinforcing their defensive structure.
The strategy paid off, as Singida struggled to penetrate the now-solid Simba defense and failed to find an equalizer.
Singida fall again
For the second time this season, Singida Black Stars have succumbed to Simba. In the first-round encounter, they lost 1-0 at home via a goal from Fabrice Ngoma.
Wednesday’s result means Simba have collected a full six points from their two league meetings with Singida this season—a significant boost in their title chase.
Simba now sit second with 72 points from 27 matches, just one point shy of archrivals Yanga who lead with 73 points.
Both sides have three matches remaining, setting up a thrilling final stretch in the battle for the league crown.
The war isn’t over yet
Despite their dominance over Singida in the league, Simba’s rivalry with the Black Stars isn’t done.
The two sides are set to meet again on May 31 in the semifinals of the FA Cup a match that promises to be a grudge encounter for Singida, while Simba will be eyeing yet another cup final.
Mukwala’s decisive performances are elevating him as one of Simba’s most important players at this critical phase of the season.
With every goal, he’s not only chasing personal milestones but also pushing Simba closer to potential league and cup glory.
