Simba sink Stellenbosch, close In on CAF final

Dar es Salaam. One of the football giants in the country, Simba, need just a draw to qualify for the finals of the CAF Confederation Cup following their 1-0 victory against Stellenbosch FC of South Africa today, April 20,2025 at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar.

Simba’s only goal of the match was scored by Jean Ahoua in the 45th minute through a well-taken free kick from about 25 metres out.

The goal gave the Tanzanian side a slim advantage ahead of the return leg. The two teams are scheduled to meet again on April 27 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa.

A draw in that match would be enough to see Simba through to the tournament’s final for the first time in their history.

In yesterday’s match, Simba dominated the encounter and created several clear scoring chances, especially in the first half. However, their finishing let them down on numerous occasions.

The Msimbazi Street giants had a golden opportunity to score in the 13th minute through defender Shomari Kapombe, who failed to connect with a brilliant pass from midfielder Ellie Mpanzu.

Mpanzu himself missed another chance in the 30th minute as his shot was saved by Stellenbosch FC’s goalkeeper, Oscarine Masuluke.

On the other end, Simba’s goalkeeper Moussa Camara made a spectacular save in the 32nd minute, denying Stellenbosch striker Andre De Jong, whose powerful header was destined for the back of the net.
Simba continued to pile pressure and had two more great chances towards the end of the first half. In the 42nd minute, forward Steven Mukwala fired wide of the target, and just a minute later, Kapombe also shot wide from inside the penalty box.

Stellenbosch FC started the second half strongly, creating several scoring chances early on, but Simba's defense remained resilient.

Despite their opponents' pressure, it was Simba who continued to waste numerous opportunities in front of goal.

Substitutes Lionel Ateba and Jean Ahoua missed two clear-cut chances during stoppage time. Ateba found himself one-on-one with goalkeeper Masuluke but failed to convert.

Just a minute later, Ahoua had a glorious opportunity to double Simba's lead but surprisingly placed his shot wide with after beating Stellenbosch FC goalkeeper, Masuluke, leaving fans in disbelief.
Despite the missed chances, Simba held on to their slim lead and will be heading to South Africa with confidence, knowing that a draw will secure their place in the CAF Confederation Cup final.

Head coach Fadlu David’s will, however, be hoping his players improve their finishing to avoid any surprises in the return leg.
The first-leg win has raised hopes among Simba fans, who are dreaming of continental glory.

If Simba manage to progress, they will become the second Tanzanian club after Yanga SC to reach a CAF Confederation Cup final, a milestone that would be a huge achievement for both the club and Tanzanian football at large.

The victory earned Simba Sh20 million from Tanzania’s President, Mama Samia Suluhu Hassan, and Sh6 million from the team’s former sponsor, Azim Dewji.