Prime
Cautious optimism for Simba ahead of Stellenbosch clash
Simba’s striker Steven Mukwala performs a somersault after scoring the second goal against Al Masry at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on Wednesday in the CAF Confederation Cup match. Simba won 4-1 on penalties after a 2-2 aggregate tie. PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- The first leg of the semi-final will be played at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam on April 20, giving Simba the initial home advantage.
Dar es Salaam. Simba SC’s path to reaching the final of the CAF Confederation Cup appear clearer than expected, but players have been strongly warned not to underestimate their opponents, South Africa’s Stellenbosch FC.
The first leg of the semi-final will be played at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam on April 20, giving Simba the initial home advantage.
A week later, on April 27, the Msimbazi Reds will travel to South Africa for the return leg. Initially, it was widely anticipated that Simba would face a tough challenge against the defending champions, Zamalek of Egypt.
However, Stellenbosch defied expectations and knocked out the Egyptian giants with a 1-0 aggregate win.
The South African side managed to hold Zamalek to a goalless draw at home before securing a decisive away victory that ended the Cairo club’s title defence.
Despite Simba’s recent record against South African clubs being less than favourable, having previously suffered setbacks against Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, there is renewed hope that this time things might be different, given the form and style of their current opponents.
Stellenbosch are currently in fifth place in the South African Premier Division, having collected 35 points from 22 matches. Recent form shows that in their last five league outings, they have won two, drawn two, and lost one, a narrow 1-0 defeat to Magesi FC.
However, the club have registered victories over several strong teams, including Sekhukhune United, Marumo Gallants, TS Galaxy, Amazulu, and Magesi.
In the CAF Confederation Cup, Stellenbosch have not only eliminated Zamalek but also defeated Stade Malien of Mali and CD Luanda, both with convincing 2-0 scorelines.
Their attacking line has proven to be particularly dangerous. So far, Stellenbosch have scored 27 goals while conceding 17 in the South African league.
This sharp offense presents a serious threat that Simba must be prepared to neutralize. For Simba to progress to the final, tactical discipline, defensive solidity, and clinical finishing will be crucial—especially considering the fire-power Stellenbosch possesses up front.
If Simba eliminate Stellenbosch, they will meet either CS Constantine of Algeria or RS Berkane of Morocco in the final.
Records show that Simba are familiar with both teams, having faced them in the past. Simba were in the same group with CS Constantine and lost 2-1 away before avenging the defeat with a 2-0 victory at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
Simba were also eliminated by RS Berkane, who lost 1-0 at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in the CAF Champions League but later overturned the result with a 2-0 win in Morocco in 2022.
While the draw may appear favorable on paper, the Tanzanian giants must approach the match with full concentration and respect for their opponents’ capabilities.
Simba’s technical bench is expected to conduct in-depth analysis on Stellenbosch’s recent performances to develop an effective strategy for both legs.
