All eyes will be on the New Amaan Stadium tonight as Ugandan playmaker Bright Anukani faces the ultimate test of his career. Currently on trial with Tanzanian giants Simba SC, Anukani is expected to play a pivotal role as the Msimbazi Reds take on Azam FC in the first semi-final of the 2026 NMB Mapinduzi Cup.
For the former Vipers SC and KCCA FC star, this isn’t just a tournament; it is a live audition. Having recently traveled to Dar es Salaam for trials, the Mapinduzi Cup has served as Anukani’s “test program” to prove he belongs in the star-studded Simba engine room.
The 216 Million Shilling Stakes
The incentive for victory couldn’t be higher. While Simba SC is looking to assess Anukani’s fitness and tactical fit, the club is also chasing a massive payday. The tournament winner is set to walk away with 150 million Tanzanian Shillings, which translates to over 216 million Ugandan Shillings (UGX).
A win tonight would secure Simba a spot in the grand finale, putting Anukani just 90 minutes away from helping his potential new employers clinch both silverware and a hefty cash prize.
A Rivalry Renewed
Standing in Simba’s way is a familiar foe: Azam FC. Known for their tactical discipline, Azam will provide the perfect “high-pressure” environment for Simba’s technical bench to evaluate if Anukani can handle the intensity of the Tanzania Premier League and CAF competitions.
Singinda Black Stars will play Yanga Africans SC in the other semifinal, set for Friday at the same ground.
Wow, this is incredibly exciting! I’m really rooting for Bright Anukani to pull off this amazing opportunity.