Uganda Cranes forward Steven Mukwala has had a standout week in Tanzania—one marked by personal accolades and historic achievement with his club, Simba SC.
On Wednesday, Mukwala played a pivotal role as Simba booked their place in the CAF Confederation Cup semifinals, marking the first time the club has reached this stage in 51 years.
The Tanzanian giants faced an uphill battle at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, needing to overturn a 2-0 first-leg deficit against Egyptian side Al Masry.
But Simba delivered when it mattered most—Mukwala and Elie Mpanzu struck in the first half to level the aggregate score.
With nothing separating the sides after 90 minutes, the tie was settled by penalties.
Simba triumphed 4-1 in the shootout, with Mukwala once again stepping up and converting his spot-kick to help his side advance.
The last time Simba reached a continental semifinal was in 1974, when they made it to the final four of the African Cup of Champions Clubs—now known as the CAF Champions League.
Domestic Glory
While helping Simba make history on the continent might be the headline, Mukwala also received individual recognition this week.
He was named the Tanzania Premier League Player of the Month for March—a reward for his exceptional form.
In just two league appearances during March, the former URA and Maroons striker was involved in five goals—netting four times and assisting once.
He scored a hat-trick in a 3-0 away win against Coastal Union, and followed that up with a goal and assist in a 6-0 demolition of Dodoma Jiji at home.
Mukwala now has nine goals in the Ligi Kuu Bara this season, just three behind his teammate and current top scorer Jean Charles Ahoua of Ivory Coast.
