Simba Queens coach calls for tactical refinements despite huge win

TANZANIA: DESPITE an emphatic 5-0 victory over FAD Djibouti, Simba Queens’ Head Coach Juma Mgunda says there is still room for tactical adjustments as they progress in the CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA Qualifier 2024 in Ethiopia.

The victory, secured on Monday at Abebe Bikila Stadium in Addis Ababa, saw Simba Queens dominate with goals from several standout players.

Asha Rashid, alias ‘Mwalala,’ came off the bench in the second half to score a hat-trick, while Jentrix Shankangwa and Elizabeth Wambui contributed with earlier goals, securing a comprehensive win.

Mgunda praised the team’s performance but remained focused on the need for improvements.

“I’m pleased with the win and the performance of my squad, but we have areas to improve as a coach, it’s crucial to address our weaknesses and make necessary adjustments,” he said.

Looking ahead, Mgunda stressed the importance of maintaining high standards.

“Our focus now shifts to the next match.

Every team we face is strong, so we must prepare thoroughly and ensure we continue to showcase our best.”

Simba Queens will face Kawempe Muslim today and conclude their group stage against PVP Buyenzi on Friday.

The top two teams from Group B will advance to the semi-finals, aiming for a spot in the final stages of the CAF Women’s Champions League.

This tournament marks Simba Queens’ third appearance in the CECAFA qualifiers.

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They previously triumphed in 2022, earning a spot in the CAF Women’s Champions League in Morocco, where they advanced to the semifinals before narrowly losing 1-0 to South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns.

The CECAFA region has seen notable successes recently, with JKT Queens and Kenya’s Vihiga Queens reaching the CAF Women’s Champions League finals in 2023 and 2021, respectively.

Meanwhile in a match played early yesterday, Commercial Bank of Ethiopia became the first team to qualify for the semi-finals after a 4-0 win over Yei Joint Stars WFC (South Sudan) in a Group A match.

The hosts also secured their spot in the knockout stage following a 3-2 victory over Rayon Sports WFC in their opening match.