Simba SC were crowned champions of the 2025/26 CRDB Bank Federation Cup after edging Azam FC 1-0 in a fiercely contested final played at Gombani Stadium on Saturday.
The victory saw the Msimbazi giants reclaim the trophy for the first time since the 2020/21 season, ending a five-year wait for the prestigious domestic cup title.
The only goal of the match came through an unfortunate own goal by Azam FC midfielder Yahya Zayd, whose attempted intervention under pressure diverted the ball into his own net.
The final lived up to expectations, with both teams displaying discipline, tactical awareness and determination in front of a lively crowd at Gombani Stadium.
Simba started brightly, pressing high up the pitch and forcing Azam into several defensive errors, while Azam remained patient and looked dangerous on the counter-attack.
Despite creating several promising opportunities in the opening half, neither side managed to find the breakthrough before the interval as both goalkeepers and defensive units stood firm.
The deadlock was eventually broken in the second half when Simba’s attacking move caused confusion inside the Azam penalty area, leading Yahya Zayd to accidentally turn the ball into his own goal.
Following the setback, Azam FC increased the intensity of their attacks, committing more players forward in an attempt to restore parity before the final whistle.
However, Simba defended with composure and organisation, frustrating every effort from Azam and protecting their slender advantage throughout the closing stages of the encounter.
The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations among Simba players, coaching staff and supporters, who watched their team secure another major domestic honour after an impressive cup campaign.
For Azam FC, the defeat was a painful end to an otherwise encouraging run in the competition, with a single moment of misfortune ultimately separating the two sides.
Simba’s Federation Cup triumph not only ends their five-year wait for the title but also provides the club with a significant confidence boost ahead of the 2026/27 season, underlining their ambition to compete for every major trophy on offer.
