Tanzanian giants Simba SC wrapped up their annual Simba Day celebrations in perfect fashion after cruising to a 2-0 victory over Kenyan champions Gor Mahia at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
The highly anticipated fixture was the centerpiece of the festivities, which traditionally blend entertainment, player unveilings, and a high-profile friendly before thousands of passionate Simba supporters.
This year’s edition carried extra significance as it brought together Simba and their East African rivals Gor Mahia in a battle for regional bragging rights. The contest kicked off at a blistering pace, with both sides eager to stamp their authority early.
Simba struck first blood in the eighth minute when Mohammed Hamza powered home a header from a well-taken free kick, giving the home side an early advantage.
Gor Mahia attempted to respond quickly, pushing forward through Christopher Ochieng and Samuel Kapen. Despite their energy, the Kenyan champions remained on the back foot as Simba’s attacking duo Neyo Mapema and Naby Camara orchestrated dangerous moves, only for Harambee Stars defenders Sylvester Owino and Michael Kibwage to step in with crucial interventions.
Midway through the first half, Gor nearly equalized when Ghanaian forward Ebenezer Adukumwa connected with Kapen’s delivery, his delicate flick skimming just over the bar.
Full-time
Simba SC 2-0 Gor Mahia#FootballKE pic.twitter.com/4Qdj5R4fjr
— Ole Teya (@TeyaKevin) September 10, 2025
Simba pressed on relentlessly, with Hamza and Kibu Dennis combining to keep the pressure on, though goalkeeper Gad Mathews was equal to the task.
Five minutes before halftime, Gor Mahia introduced Austin Odhiambo to add creativity in midfield. The playmaker almost made an immediate impact with a powerful shot that forced Simba’s goalkeeper into a sharp save.
The first half ended with both sides trading blows, but Simba went into the break with a slender 1-0 lead.
On resumption, Simba doubled their advantage in the 55th minute through Ugandan striker Steven Dese Mukwala, who capitalized on a defensive error to slot past Mathews and tighten the hosts’ grip on the contest.
Gor Mahia refused to surrender easily, with Odhiambo twice coming close to pulling one back, though his attempts lacked the finishing edge needed to beat the Simba keeper.
With time running out, Simba pressed for a third goal. Newly signed midfielder Neo Maema almost marked his debut with a memorable strike, but his shot drifted just wide of the upright.
In the dying minutes, the hosts threatened again through Naby Camara, but Gor’s backline, expertly marshalled by Owino, stood tall to prevent any further damage.