Simba SC poised for history as CAF Confederation Cup final beckons

For Simba, this is more than a football match—it is a defining pursuit of continental glory, national pride, and a chance to rewrite the record books.

Simba’s last appearance in a CAF final dates back to 1993, when they reached the African Cup Winners’ Cup final, only to fall short against Ivorian side Stella Abidjan. Ironically, just like then, the first leg was played away.

Now, 31 years later, Simba are on the brink of redemption—and possibly, of delivering Tanzania its first-ever CAF club title.

Their path to the final has reignited the dreams of millions of Tanzanian football fans, who have long waited for a moment of continental triumph.

The feat follows in the footsteps of archrivals Young Africans (Yanga), who reached the same stage two years ago but fell just short.

Also read: Yanga face USM Alger in first leg of CAF Cup final |

Simba’s resurgence has now rekindled the belief that Tanzanian football's long-awaited breakthrough is finally within reach.

Under the guidance of head coach Fadlu Davids, Simba have navigated a tough campaign with tactical maturity and resilience.

They dispatched South African newcomers Stellenbosch FC in the semifinals after eliminating Egypt’s Al Masry in the previous round.

Key to their campaign has been midfield linchpin Jean Charles Ahoua, whose control and vision have anchored Simba’s midfield.

Captain Mohamed Hussein Zimbwe Jr has led by example—delivering crucial goals and inspiring performances to help guide the team through difficult moments, and now the renaissance of Zambian playmaker Joshua Mutale.

This combination of flair and grit has powered Simba into their first CAF Confederation Cup final, and only the second ever for a Tanzanian club since the competition began in 2004.

But standing in their way are Morocco’s RS Berkane—the “Orange Boys”—twice champions of the Confederation Cup in 2020 and 2022.

Renowned for their defensive discipline and tournament experience, RS Berkane will present a formidable challenge.

However, Simba’s passionate supporters are expected to create an intimidating atmosphere during the return leg on May 25.

While the Casablanca leg will be crucial in setting the tone, Simba will look to their fortress back home to finish the job and make history.

 A triumph over RS Berkane would not only dethrone a North African powerhouse but also signal East Africa’s growing presence in African club football.

For Tanzanians, Simba’s success transcends club rivalry. It presents an opportunity to place the country on the continental football map, attract fresh investment, and inspire a new generation of local talent.

Many observers believe the Tanzanian Premier League has yet to break into Africa’s top five domestic leagues, but a CAF title could be a catalyst for change.

Simba’s moment of reckoning echoes the transformative impact of DR Congo’s TP Mazembe, whose continental dominance elevated football across the region.

Similarly, a Simba victory could trigger a renaissance for Tanzanian football—both in ambition and infrastructure.

Also read: Che Malone: We'll raise Tanzania's flag high against Berkane

This final is more than just a shot at silverware. For Simba SC, it is a once-in-a-generation moment that could cement the club’s place in African football history.

Should they succeed, the current squad will not just be remembered for their youthful energy but as trailblazers who carried the hopes of a nation to the summit of the beautiful game.

As red-and-white flags wave across the country and fans rally behind their beloved team, one thing is clear: this is more than a match—it is a national moment.

And when the whistle blows in Casablanca on the night of May 17, it will not be just Simba on the pitch—it will be Tanzania daring to dream.

The road has been long and fraught with challenges. The stage is set. For Simba—and Tanzania—the time is now.