Simba SC signs Ivorian midfielder from ASEC Mimosas     

The Msimbazi Street-based side yesterday confirmed its second signing after announcing the capture of Ivorian attacking midfielder Aubin Kramo Kouame from Ivorian outfit, ASEC Mimosas, signing a two-year deal yesterday.

Kramo, aged 27, joins Cameroonian forward Willy Onana as Simba SC continues to strengthen the outfit’s attacking options which scored the highest number of goals in the just-ended NBC Premier League.

“The Management has reached an agreement to sign forward Aubin Kramo Kouame from ASEC Mimosas on a two-year contract,” Simba SC announced on Friday.

The left-footed winger, who can feature either upfront or at either wing, was one of the standout players in the CAF Confederation Cup last season having scored four goals in 12 games.

His prowess propelled ASEC Mimosas to reach the 2022/23 CAF Champions League semi-finals, catching the eye of the Simba SC's technical team. 

He also adds three more goals in the CAF Champions League with ASEC Mimosas.

Kramo's vast experience in both CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup has seen him make 38 appearances in both competitions and score nine times while assisting four goals in the process.

The other clubs he turned out for include other Ivory Coast sides, San Pedro FC, and African Sports. At ASEC Mimosas, he guided the team to a domestic double by lifting the Premier League and the Federation Cup top honours last season.

Simba SC, which will participate in the inaugural African Super League, has tapped into this experience to help the side navigate in a competition that will involve eight African elite clubs.

“Kramo is an experienced player in the African tournaments who we believe will be a great help to the team towards the new League season 2023/24,” part of the club statement read.

Simba SC currently has Peter Banda, Pape Sakho, and Dennis Kibu on the side’s roster.

The outfit will however need to have a big squad next season as the squad will be playing in five competitions.

They will be fighting for the Community Shield Knockout showdown, African Super League, NBC Premier League, Azam Sports Federation Cup, and the CAF Champions League.

Last season, the Msimbazi Street club finished second in NBC Premier League, five points behind champion, Young Africans (Yanga). Pre-season preparations for Simba SC include a training camp in Turkey.