Despite a narrow 1-0 defeat to bitter rivals Young Africans in the Kariakoo Derby, Fadlu Davids has made a blistering start to his tenure at Simba SC, leading the team to impressive victories and securing a strong defensive record.
Davids, formerly with Orlando Pirates in the SA elite league and Moroccan giants Raja Casablanca, took charge of Simba SC 16 weeks ago in Tanzania.
Wekundu Wa Msimbazi underwent a significant squad overhaul, signing 15 new players to replace the underperforming team that had been eclipsed by Yanga’s three consecutive league titles.
The same fixture that ended in a 1-0 defeat for Simba over the weekend was a 5-1 bloodbath last season. While the result wasn’t in Simba’s favour, the performance showed they’re closing the gap.
A LOOK AT SIMBA’S STATS UNDER FADLU DAVIDS
In just 16 weeks at the helm of Simba SC, Davids has guided the team to a remarkable record of six wins, two draws, and only two losses while scoring 16 goals and conceding just 5. These impressive statistics demonstrate Davids’ exceptional start as the club’s coach.
Speaking a day after the derby, Davids praised his players for their improved performance compared to the previous derby. “It’s been 15 weeks now that we’ve been working together with the squad,” he told FARPost.
“There’s been an improvement in relation to the last derby. Our team has grown, and we were able to match Yanga in all aspects.”
The coach acknowledged that the derby was a tactical battle, with both teams employing different pressing and build-up structures. He commended his players for adapting to the game’s challenges.
“I think the Derby was fairly balanced, as we expected on both sides. It was a tactical battle on both sides, with different pressing structures and build-up structures on both sides. Adaptation within the game was really good.”
Davids expressed disappointment in conceding the late goal and emphasised the importance of avoiding set-piece goals in the future. However, he remained optimistic about the team’s progress. “We have made significant strides and are on the right track,” he said.
The coach highlighted the challenges of integrating 15 new players into the squad and emphasised the need for additional signings to strengthen key positions.
He praised the recent additions of Guinean goalkeeper Moussa Camara and Cameroonian forward Lionel Ateba and expressed excitement about the potential impact of Elie Mpanzu on the attacking front.
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