SIMBA SC head coach Steve Barker has dedicated the club's Federation Cup victory to the management, technical team and players after their narrow 1-0 win over Azam FC in the final.

The South African coach applauded his squad for their discipline, effort and strong mentality after they edged their Dar es Salaam opponents in a tightly contested Mzizima Derby at Gombani Stadium in Pemba, Zanzibar.

A decisive own goal by Azam FC midfielder Yahya Zayd in the 62nd minute separated the two sides, giving Simba the trophy and bringing an end to the club's four-year wait for a major domestic title. 

After the final whistle, Barker said the match had all the intensity and pressure expected of a cup final, with both teams giving everything in pursuit of silverware.

"It was a hard game, hard fought, a typical cup final," Barker said.

Although Azam FC made life difficult for Simba, the coach felt his side had done enough to deserve the win after spending long spells in control of the contest. He pointed out that Simba were the stronger side in the first half, as they managed to set the rhythm of the game and create the better chances in front of goal.

Barker was especially complimentary about his players, saying they had shown consistent quality since he joined the club and had fully justified their success with their performances. In his view, lifting the Federation Cup was a deserved reward for the dedication, sacrifice and hard work the squad had shown throughout the season.

While celebrating the triumph, Barker also took time to recognize the important contribution of Simba's leadership, saying their backing had been vital during a challenging campaign.

"This win was for the management, the president, the chairman, the board, all the support staff, and mainly the players," he said.

He gave particular praise to Simba honorary president Mohamed Dewji, the board of directors and the club's wider administration, thanking them for the trust they had placed in him and the technical bench.

According to Barker, the steady support from the club hierarchy helped the team stay focused and motivated even under the pressure of competing for trophies. He added that the leadership's confidence in the coaching staff created the right environment for the players to perform at their best when it mattered most.

Barker stressed that the Federation Cup triumph was not the achievement of one individual, but the result of a united effort from everyone connected to Simba SC. He said the success reflected months of preparation, commitment and teamwork behind the scenes, with every department playing a role in the club's journey to the title.

The coach credited the players, technical bench, medical staff, support personnel and the broader Simba family for contributing to the campaign that ended in silverware.

The victory also earned Simba automatic qualification for next season's CAF Confederation Cup, offering a major boost as Barker aims to continue building on a strong first season in charge and guide the club back to the top level of Tanzanian football.