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Simba’s form makes them favourites versus Al Masry
players are training in Ismailia, Egypt, ahead of Wednesday’s CAF Confederation Cup knockout stage match against Al Masry, which will be held in Suez at 7pm East Africa Time. PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
This attacking efficiency and defensive solidity indicate that Simba have the ability to control the game and take advantage of Al Masry’s inconsistencies.
Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s football giants, Simba SC, have a strong chance of eliminating Al Masry of Egypt in the CAF Confederation Cup knockout stage, based on their superior recent statistics.
The two sides will face off on Wednesday at the New Suez Stadium in Egypt at 7pm East African Time, with the return leg set for April 9 at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam from 5pm.
A review of the last 10 matches played by both teams in various competitions paints a clear picture of Simba's superiority.
The Msimbazi-based side have registered an impressive seven wins and three draws, with no losses. They have also showcased attacking prowess, netting a total of 26 goals while conceding only five.
In contrast, Al Masry have struggled in their last 10 outings, winning just three matches, drawing five, and suffering two defeats. The Egyptian outfit have managed to score only 10 goals while conceding nine during this period, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities that Simba could exploit.
Simba’s form in the Mainland Tanzania Premier League further reinforces their advantage. The team currently sit second in the league table with 57 points from 22 matches, scoring 52 goals while conceding just eight. This attacking efficiency and defensive solidity indicate that Simba have the ability to control the game and take advantage of Al Masry’s inconsistencies.
Meanwhile, Al Masry, competing in the Egyptian Premier League, hold fourth place with 31 points from 18 matches.
Their league record includes 19 goals scored and 11 conceded, figures that suggest a more modest attacking threat compared to Simba.
Head to head
Simba will be seeking revenge against Egyptian powerhouse Al Masry, who finished second in Group D with nine points. The two teams last met in 2018 in the same competition, where Simba were eliminated on the away goals rule.
During that encounter, Simba managed a goalless draw in Cairo but were held to a 2-2 draw in Dar es Salaam, resulting in their elimination. This time, Simba will be eager to turn the tables and ensure history does not repeat itself.
Several factors favor Simba heading into this crucial fixture. Their seven-match unbeaten streak in all competitions, compared to Al Masry’s mixed results, gives them a psychological advantage.
Simba have also outscored Al Masry significantly in recent matches, demonstrating their firepower upfront.
