Simba secure CAF Confederation Cup knockout stage spot

Dar es Salaam. Simba Sports Club have today, January 12, 2025, booked a place in the knockout stage of the CAF Confederation Cup after a 1-1 draw against Angola's Bravos do Maquis in a thrilling Group A encounter.

The Msimbazi Street giants advanced on the head-to-head regulation, having previously defeated Bravos 1-0 in Dar es Salaam.

The match saw Simba’s striker Leonel Ateba emerge as the hero, scoring a crucial equalizer in the 69th minute.

Ateba capitalized on a defensive blunder by Bravos’ defender, who failed to clear Shomari Kapombe's cross effectively.

The ball fell to Ateba, who made no mistake in slotting it past the goalkeeper, sparking celebrations among the Tanzanian side’s fans.

Earlier, Bravos had taken the lead through Abednego Mosiatlhago.

The striker punished Simba defender Che Malone Fondoh for a weak back pass to goalkeeper Moussa Camara, intercepting the ball to score in the first half.

Despite the early setback, Simba held their composure and fought back to secure the vital point they needed.

The result takes Simba’s tally to 10 points, the same number Bravos could achieve if they win their final group match against CS Sfaxien on January 19, 2025.

However, Simba’s head-to-head advantage, courtesy of their first-leg victory in Dar es Salaam, ensures they progress to the next round.

Joining Simba in the knockout stage from Group A are Algeria's CS Constantine, who lead the group with 12 points.

Constantine secured their qualification in style with a commanding 3-0 win over CS Sfaxien in today's other group match.

This marks Simba’s second qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup knockout stage in the club’s history.

Their first came in the 2021/2022 season, when they were eliminated by South Africa's Orlando Pirates on penalties after a 1-1 aggregate draw.

Simba’s latest achievement underscores their growing reputation in continental football.