Simba kick off CAF Confederation Cup campaign with Victory
What you need to know:
- Libyan referee Mutaz Ibrahim awarded the penalty without hesitation, and the Ivorian attacking midfielder confidently converted it with a powerful shot to the right side of Bravos goalkeeper Landu Mavanga.
Dar es Salaam. A goal by Jean Charles Ahoua was enough for Simba to secure a 1-0 victory against Angola's Bravos do Maquis in their CAF Confederation Cup opener at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium today on November 27, 2024.
Ahoua scored in the 27th minute from the penalty spot after Bravos defender Ruben Aderito handled the ball in the danger zone while trying to clear a threatening ball.
Libyan referee Mutaz Ibrahim awarded the penalty without hesitation, and the Ivorian attacking midfielder confidently converted it with a powerful shot to the right side of Bravos goalkeeper Landu Mavanga.
Simba started the match on the front foot, pressing Bravos and aiming to score early. The Msimbazi Street side's striking force, led by Steven Mukwala, created several goal-scoring opportunities, but Bravos employed a defensive strategy to thwart their efforts.
Simba could have extended the scoreline if their players had shown more composure in front of the Bravos goal, as several clear chances were wasted.
Bravos, on the other hand, launched few attacks in the first half without creating any clear opportunities. However, the Angolan side improved in the second half, pressing Simba's defense in search of an equalizer.
Nigerian striker Emmanuel Edmond had the best chance to level for Bravos, but he missed a penalty in the 47th minute. Simba goalkeeper Moussa Camara made an impressive save to deny Edmond and maintain Simba's lead.
With this victory, Simba lead Group A with three points, while Bravos remain at the bottom without any points. The group also features CS Constantine of Algeria and CS Sfaxien of Tunisia, who were scheduled to play later in the day.
Simba head coach Fadlu Davids praised his players for their strong start and performance but acknowledged the need to address some mistakes.
“I commend my players for the victory. This is a good start, and our focus now shifts to the next match in Algeria,” said Fadlu.
Simba's next match is against CS Constantine on December 8, at the Mohamed Hamlaoui Stadium in Algeria, followed by a return fixture a week later at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
