Ellie Mpanzu once again proved to be the man for the big occasion as Simba SC edged past Dodoma Jiji FC 1-0, May 24, 2026 in a tightly contested Tanzania Premier League encounter at the KMC Stadium in Dar es Salaam, a result that sent the Msimbazi giants back to the summit of the table.
The Congolese forward delivered the decisive moment in the 62nd minute, capping a performance full of energy, movement and determination.
His goal not only secured all three points but also highlighted his growing importance in Simba’s title challenge as the season reaches its decisive stage.
With this win, Simba moved to 58 points, overtaking Yanga and reclaiming top position in the title race.
Mpanzu’s influence this season continues to stand out.
He has now directly contributed to 10 goals scoring four and providing eight assists making him the second most productive player in the squad behind Clatous Chama, who remains the creative leader with eight goals and six assists.
For Mpanzu, this consistency mirrors his debut season output after joining from AS Vita Club, underlining his reliability in key moments.
From the opening whistle, Simba started brightly, pressing high and looking to score early.
However, they wasted three clear chances inside the opening 15 minutes, with Mpanzu himself involved in two of them.
Despite their dominance in territory and possession, they lacked composure in the final third.
Dodoma Jiji showed strong defensive organisation, with Andy Bikoko and Augustino Nsata standing firm at the back.
They blocked spaces well and made it difficult for Simba to create clear chances inside the box.
In midfield, Nelson Munganga and Salmin Hoza worked hard to break up play and limit the influence of Mpanzu and Chama.
On the flanks, Libasse Gueye and Anicet Oura were well contained by Gadiel Michael and Andersony Solomon, making it a difficult first half for the visitors.
Despite Simba controlling most of the ball, the first half ended goalless, with Dodoma Jiji remaining disciplined and dangerous on the counter-attack.
The second half saw Simba increase their intensity and play with more urgency.
Mpanzu was given more freedom to drift wide, which helped stretch Dodoma Jiji’s defence and create more space centrally.
The breakthrough came in the 60th minute when Mpanzu broke into the box and was brought down by goalkeeper Daniel Mgore, who was attempting to stop a clear scoring chance.
Simba were awarded a penalty, but Chama’s effort was saved.
Mpanzu reacted quickest to the rebound and calmly finished to give Simba the lead.
After the goal, Simba managed the game well, slowing the tempo and focusing on maintaining control.
Dodoma Jiji pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but Simba’s defence remained solid and organised.
Late in the game, Simba made changes to freshen up the attack, with Inno Jospin Loemba coming on as Anicet Oura was substituted.
Mpanzu also adjusted his positioning, helping both in attack and defence.
This result also extended Simba’s strong record against Dodoma Jiji.
Since 2021, the two sides have met 12 times in the league, with Simba winning 11 and drawing just once. Dodoma Jiji are still searching for their first win in this fixture.
Across those meetings, Simba have scored 23 goals and conceded only two, underlining their dominance in this matchup.
One of their most notable wins remains the 6-0 victory in March 2025.
With this win, Simba continue their strong run of form with five consecutive league victories, strengthening their position in the title race as the season approaches its climax.
Mpanzu’s growing influence and Chama’s experience continue to be key factors in their push for the championship.
