Gor Mahia Vs Simba: Tanzanian giants sink Kogallo 2-0 in Dar es Salaam
By Mustafa Juma, September 11, 2025Tanzanian heavyweights Simba SC on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, lit up their annual Simba Day celebrations with a commanding 2-0 win over Kenyan champions Gor Mahia at the packed Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
Gor Mahia had been invited as the chief guest for Simba Day, a traditional pre-season event in Tanzania that was postponed last year due to the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Simba got off to a dream start, breaking the deadlock in the 8th minute through Mohammed Hamza, who rose highest to nod home a well-delivered free kick.
Gor Mahia responded positively, with Christopher Ochieng and Samuel Kapen pushing forward, while Ghanaian striker Ebenezer Adukumwa almost equalised with a clever flick that grazed just over the bar.
Constant pressure
Despite their efforts, Gor’s defence found itself under constant pressure from Simba’s lively forwards Neyo Mapema and Naby Camara.
Midway through the first half, Gor introduced playmaker Austin Odhiambo, who nearly made an instant impact with a fierce shot that forced Simba’s goalkeeper into action. The first half ended 1-0 in favour of the hosts.
Simba tightened their grip after the break when Ugandan striker Steven Dese Mukwala capitalised on a defensive error in the 55th minute to slot home their second goal.
From then on, the Tanzanians dictated the tempo, keeping Gor on the back foot.
Austin Odhiambo’s impact
Odhiambo tried to inspire a comeback for the Kenyan champions, but his two attempts lacked the final punch. New Simba signing Neo Maema almost crowned his debut with a goal, but his strike flew narrowly wide.
As the game wore on, Simba continued to press, with Naby Camara threatening late on, but Gor’s defence—marshalled by Harambee Stars duo Sylvester Owino and Michael Kibwage—prevented further damage.
Speaking ahead of the match, Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor had expressed confidence in his team.
“Simba is a big club. This will be a big match for us, and we are looking forward to it. It’s an important pre-season match; for us, it’s a training match but a big one. We are very confident, and we believe we will have a very good match tomorrow,” he said during a press briefing on Tuesday, September 9, 2025.