Simba SC Pushes for Comeback in CAF Confederation Cup Quarterfinals

DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania – In a thrilling display of determination, Simba SC mounted pressure against Al-Masry during the second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinals on Wednesday at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, chasing a two-goal deficit from the first leg.

With kick-off at 30 minutes past 6 PM local time, Simba SC demonstrated their intent early on. Elie Mpanzu Kibisawala, having previously scored the Tanzanian team’s opening goal, showcased his skills by initiating an attack from the left and unleashing a powerful shot towards the opponent’s goal.

Just eight minutes into the match, Kibisawala found the back of the net with a mid-range effort, striking the ball into the left post of the Al-Masry goalkeeper. This goal brought Simba SC within one of leveling the aggregate score against the Egyptians, who had taken a commanding 2-0 lead in the first leg.

Simba SC continued to dominate possession and pressed for an early second goal, as Al-Masry’s players held a defensive posture, waiting for counterattack opportunities. “We knew we had to take risks and push forward, and we did,” said Simba SC coach, who emphasized the importance of an aggressive strategy to come back in the tie.

As the match progressed, Simba SC created more chances, notably through a significant play initiated by Denis, who broke free down the right flank, providing a cross that Jean Charles Ahoua failed to convert, sending the ball out for a goal kick. Nevertheless, the home team remained persistent in their efforts.

Simba SC entered the second leg determined and buoyed by home support, but they faced a tough opponent in Al-Masry, who had prepared strategies to maintain their lead. The Egyptian side looked to replicate their previous success, having gone into the match with a strong defensive record.

“We came here to finish what we started. Winning the first leg gave us confidence, but we are aware that the game is not over yet,” said Al-Masry’s coach during a pre-game interview.

Both teams entered the field at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, a venue known for reportedly holding 60,000 spectators since its opening in 2007. The vibrant atmosphere reflected the significance of the match, with fans eager to support their teams in this continental clash.

The first leg between the two teams took place in Egypt, where Al-Masry secured a 2-0 victory, courtesy of goals from Deghmoum and Ebuka. As a result, Simba SC faced the daunting task of overturning the deficit on home soil.

In the buildup to this crucial encounter, Simba SC topped their group in the CAF Confederation Cup, while Al-Masry finished second in theirs, illustrating the competitive nature of both squads. Statistics showed that Simba SC was in good form domestically, sitting second in their league, seven points off the lead but with matches in hand.

As the match unfolded, Simba’s strategy centered on creating opportunities, while Al-Masry sought to exploit counter-attacks. The energy on the pitch exemplified the intensity of the CAF Confederation Cup, a tournament considered second only to the Champions League in Africa.

With the aggregate match on a knife-edge and stakes high, the remainder of the game proved pivotal for both teams. A decisive turn could define not only their season but their legacy in African club football.