Acquino is a top player, says Simba Queens TM Makanya

Tanzania side Simba Queens Team Manager Selemani Makanya believes Harambee Starlets assistant captain Vivian Corazone Acquino will be pivotal in their quest to winn more titles next season.

He becomes the fourth  signing for coach Sebastian Nkoma’s charges ahead the new season.

In an exclusive interview with Citizen Digital, Makanya said Acquino is part of their strategies they are laying down looking forward to defend the Tanzanian Women Premier League next season after winning it for the third consecutive season.

“I’m very happy having signed Corazon. She is a very talented player, and I also love her utility in that she can play in any position on the pitch. I have been chasing her signature for almost three years now and I’m glad that she has turned down many offers including from abroad so that she joins us.

“Since the time she was playing for Portuguese side Atletico Ouriense in mid-January 2020, I have been in touch with her and she has been sending me screen shots of many cubs which were eying her signature,” Makanya explained.

Acquino is expected to play a big role in the CECAFA Club Championship set for to kick off in August 2022, whereby the overall winner will have a chance to feature in the second edition of the CAF Women Champions League after the inaugural edition held last year in Cairo, Egypt.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, the Starlets ace said she is elated to join the champions, hoping to make new history with the club.

“I’m grateful to God for this move because He has given me another opportunity to shine away from home. I have played in Europe before and I’m looking forward to bring the experience gained there. Whatever I didn’t achieve there, I’m here to achieve it.

“Moving to Simba is a step forward in my career because it’s a good team, their matches are televised so it’s easy to market oneself,” she said.

After her one-year deal in Portugal lapsed, Corazon rejoined Gaspo at the start of last season and she has featured in all matches for the national team since her debut in 2016.

She was part of Harambee Starlets team which took part in the 2026 AWCON tournament in Limbe, Cameroon.

She becomes the second Kenyan to play for the side after Bertha Omita who joined the team in 2020 and lasted for a season.

Apart from playing for Gaspo Women FC in the Kenyan Women Premier League (KWPL), Acquino has also featured for Vihiga Queens and Soccer Queens.