Simba SC will look to defend their slender advantage when they face Stellenbosch FC this Sunday in the second leg of their CAF Confederation Cup semi-final.
The Tanzanian side seized the initiative in the first leg, securing a 1-0 win thanks to a dominant performance that left Stellenbosch struggling to impose themselves.
Now, with a place in the final at stake, the South African outfit must produce a spirited comeback in front of their home fans to keep their dreams alive.
Confidence runs high within the Simba SC camp following their first-leg triumph. Under the guidance of coach Fadlu Davids, the Tanzanian club controlled much of the match, giving themselves a critical edge heading into the decisive encounter.
However, despite their advantage, Davids and his players remain cautious. They are fully aware that Stellenbosch, buoyed by home support, will present a different and far more aggressive challenge in the return leg.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Stellenbosch head coach Steve Barker exuded belief in his team’s ability to overturn the deficit.
Addressing the South African media, Barker emphasized that his side had grown stronger and was capable of achieving the comeback needed to reach the final.
“We were the better team in many aspects,” Barker said. “We improved throughout the match. While we pushed for an away goal and didn’t get it, I am very confident we can recover from this setback. There’s no guarantee we will qualify, but what I saw in the first leg convinces me that Simba SC are beatable.”
Barker is expected to make key tactical adjustments in preparation for the crucial fixture. Players like André De Jong, Khomotjo Lekoloane, and Devon Titus will likely play central roles in Stellenbosch’s attempt to unlock Simba’s defence.
Barker’s strategy will focus on more incisive attacking movements and exploiting any vulnerabilities left by a Simba side that might choose to sit back and protect their advantage.
Simba SC, on the other hand, will aim to maintain their composure and stick to the game plan that earned them victory last weekend. Jean Charles Ahoua, Steven Mukwala, and Elie Mpanzu are set to be pivotal once again, providing stability and attacking threats to counter Stellenbosch’s anticipated offensive onslaught.
The semi-final promises a fascinating tactical battle between two ambitious sides. Stellenbosch must find the right balance between attack and defence, knowing that conceding an away goal could make their task even more daunting. Simba, meanwhile, must resist the temptation to retreat too deeply and invite pressure that could lead to mistakes.
Kick-off at the Danie Craven Stadium is scheduled for 1 p.m. GMT on Sunday, April 27, 2025. Both teams know what is at stake: a place in the CAF Confederation Cup final and the chance to etch their names in continental football history.
