Simba's dream of AFL glory runs out in Egypt
Jean Baleke's header was diverted into the net by team mate Kanoute in the 63r minute
Cairo. Simba SC's dream of reaching the inaugural semifinals of the African Football League (AFL) came to an end on Tuesday at the Cairo International Stadium in Egypt, as they were eliminated by Al Ahly on the away goals rule after the two teams drew 3-3 on aggregate.
Simba and Al Ahly played to a 1-1 draw in the second leg of their quarterfinal tie, with the Tanzanian giants taking the lead through Sadio Kanoute in the 63rd minute.
However, Mahmoud Abdelmoneim Kahraba equalized for Al Ahly just four minutes later, and the score remained deadlocked for the rest of the match.
Simba's attacking mid-fielder Saido Ntibazonkiza takes on Al- Ahly defender
The first leg of the tie had also ended in a 2-2 draw, meaning that Al Ahly progressed to the semifinals on the away goals rule.
Simba played well in both legs of the tie and created many clear scoring chances, but their strikers were unable to capitalize.
Al Ahly, on the other hand, were more clinical with their finishing, and they were able to make the most of the few chances that they created.
The result is a disappointing one for Simba, but they can take pride as they recorded their first draw against Al Ahly in Cairo.
Simba is one of the most successful clubs in Tanzania, having won the Tanzanian Premier League a record 24 times.
