Simba crowned Champions as unbeaten run ended by Kagera Sugar

Kagera Sugar veteran goalkeeper Juma Kaseja produced a stunning performance to end Simba’s unbeaten run after saving an injury time penalty from Emmanuel Okwi in a match were Tanzania President His Excellency, Dr. John Pombe Magufuli was the Guest of Honor.

Simba headed into the game as Tanzania Premier League champions while knowing that a win or draw would help them maintain their unbeaten run to 29 games, with one game away from completing the season.

However, Head coach Pierre Lechantre decided to choose a “weak side” with the likes of John Bocco, Asante Kwasi, Aishi Manula left on the bench.

The game started with both teams tryng to calm down play when in possesion and no chances arrived until the break.

Simba returned in the second half with hunger for goals only to see their efforts being kept out by man of the match Juma Kaseja who stood firm between the sticks.

The celebration from Simba fans were in high spirit with almost 85% of the crowd painted the ground with white and red colors.

Shiza Kichuya went close to giving Simba the lead but his effort hit the post.

With both teams trying to settle for a point, Kagera Sugar broke the deadlock in 85th minute through Jaffar Kibaya who capitalized on a mistake by Simba Goalkeeper Said Mohamed.

The goal seemed to confuse the whole team and they started to seek for an equalizer. Their efforts nearly succeeded when Okwi was brought down in the penalty area and referee awarded the spot kick in the two minutes of added time.

However, Okwi who is the Premier League top scorer stepped up to take it but unfortunately, he directed his kick to Kaseja who punched it away.

The defeat leaves Simba with 68 points but no chance for a unbeaten record this season with one game remaining before finishing the season.

This is nearly similar to what occurred in Spain were Barcelona’s unbeaten run was ended by Levante last Saturday.

After the game, Simba was handed their title by President Magufuli.

Simba will head to Ruvuma to play against Maji Maji in the final day of the Premier League on May 26.