Azam disrupted Simba’s pursuit of the NBC Premier League title by forcing a 2-2 draw in a fiercely contested match at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on a Monday evening.
From the outset, Azam displayed their determination to win, and it paid off when Gibril Sillah scored the opening goal just two minutes into the match. He capitalized on an electric attack after Idi Naddo squared a pass to him in the box.
However, Azam’s lead was short-lived as Elly Mpanzu equalized for Simba in the 27th minute, neatly finishing a one-on-one opportunity set up by Kibu Dennis.
The score remained 1-1 until halftime, and Simba emerged from the break as a rejuvenated side, pressing hard for a second goal. Their efforts were rewarded in the 75th minute when Abdurazak Hamza scored with a powerful header from a well-placed free kick by Ahoua.
Just when it seemed Simba had secured a hard-earned victory, Azam’s Feisal delivered a long, curling pass from inside his own half to Zidane, who was making a run. Zidane put in a determined effort to push the ball into the net, equalizing during stoppage time.
The draw means Simba has dropped two crucial points in the title race, with their rivals Young Africans currently leading with 55 points. Despite the draw, Simba remains in second place with 51 points, although they have a game in hand. Azam continues to hold third position, trailing behind both Simba and Young Africans.
