Why Tanzanian giants Simba pulled plug on Gor Mahia friendly

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FOOTBALL Why Tanzanian giants Simba pulled plug on Gor Mahia friendly

Festus Chuma 18:36 - 07.09.2023

Tanzanian side Simba SC have canceled a friendly match with FKFPL champions, which has impacted their preparation for the CAF Champions League.

Tanzanian Premier League giants Simba Sports Club have decided to cancel their highly-anticipated friendly match against Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) record champions Gor Mahia.

The Msimbazi Reds, who were all set to travel to Nairobi at the beginning of the week for this exciting clash, made the decision to scrap the game, citing concerns over fan attendance.

Not only has this decision impacted their friendly against Gor Mahia, but it has also cast a shadow over their match against Kenya Police FC, which was scheduled to be played at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.

Simba SC's spokesperson, Abbas Ally, confirmed the abrupt change of plans, shedding light on the reasons behind it.

"We had two friendly matches lined up, but the Football Kenya Federation has asked us to play these matches behind closed doors, without allowing our passionate fans to attend. 

"This presents a significant challenge given the massive support our team enjoys on both sides. We fear that our fans will turn out in large numbers, a turnout that we may have underestimated," he explained as per Tanzanian publication Mwanaspoti.

This unexpected development has left both Simba SC and Gor Mahia fans disappointed as they were eagerly looking forward to witnessing the clash between the two East African football giants on the pitch. 

The canceled friendly was intended to serve as vital preparation for Simba SC ahead of their highly anticipated CAF Champions League encounter against Zambian powerhouse Power Dynamos.

The CAF Champions League is set to kick off in the 2023/2024 season, and Simba SC has been eyeing a strong start. 

The Msimbazi Reds match against Power Dynamos is scheduled to take place at the revered Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola on the 16th of September.