Simba SC striker Ibrahim Doumbia has been given key advice that could help him rediscover his sharpness and open his goalscoring account for the Reds of Msimbazi.
Doumbia, who joined Simba in July from Mali’s AS Korofina, has been under pressure after failing to score since the start of the new season in both the NBC Premier League and the CAF Champions League (CAFCL).
Since arriving at Msimbazi, Doumbia has scored just once, in the CECAFA tournament held in Rwanda at the end of July 2026.
Football analysts believe the striker has yet to fully adapt to the team’s pace and system, unlike some of his teammates who have helped make Simba’s attacks faster and more dynamic.
Doumbia Urged to Change His Playing Style
One of the main pieces of advice given to Doumbia is to adjust the way he plays to fit the team’s system, rather than forcing Simba to change its style of play to accommodate him.
The striker needs to clearly understand his responsibilities within head coach Steve Barker’s system and make better use of the opportunities created by his teammates.
This will help him become an integral part of the team’s system rather than a player waiting for the team to create specific conditions for him to perform.
Composure in Front of Goal
Doumbia has also been urged to remain more composed when he reaches dangerous areas.
The pressure to score his first goal can cause a striker to make rushed decisions or try to force things. He therefore needs to stay calm, trust his ability and make better use of the chances that come his way.
The first goal could be important in restoring his confidence, particularly after beginning the season without scoring.
Increase His Work Rate
Beyond scoring goals, Doumbia needs to increase his work rate throughout the match.
This includes pressing opposition defenders, making runs without the ball, looking for spaces behind the defensive line and being ready to take advantage of every opportunity created by the midfielders and wingers.
By doing so, he can become a more important part of Simba’s system even when he does not score.
The striker has admitted that he is going through a transitional period, but said he is ready to fight to regain the trust of Simba supporters.
“I understand the expectations of the fans and I know I am going through a difficult period, but I am working hard every day. I will fight and give everything I have to help my team get results,” Doumbia said.
Barker Still Believes in Him
Despite his goalscoring drought, the technical bench under Steve Barker has continued to give Doumbia opportunities, showing that he remains trusted within the squad.
For now, his biggest challenge is to turn the chances he creates or receives into goals and begin showing the impact expected from his signing.
With the league currently on hold for the FIFA international calendar, this could be the right time for him to work on his game and ensure he returns with renewed sharpness when the league resumes with the Kariakoo Derby against Yanga on October 10.
