Simba SC secured their place in the 2024-2025 CAF Confederation Cup final after a tense 0-0 draw against Stellenbosch FC on Sunday, preserving their narrow advantage from the first leg.
Carrying a 1-0 lead from the initial encounter in Zanzibar, Simba SC approached the return leg with a clear focus on controlling the game early on.
The Tanzanian side enjoyed the lion’s share of possession in the opening exchanges, seeking to put the tie beyond Stellenbosch’s reach.
Despite creating several promising chances, Simba struggled to find the clinical edge needed to extend their aggregate lead.
As the first half progressed, Stellenbosch gradually grew into the contest.
Led by Fawaaz Basadien, the South Africans found their rhythm after the half-hour mark, pushing forward in search of the goal that would level the tie.
However, their efforts before the interval failed to break through a resilient Simba defence.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Simba initially on the front foot, looking to kill off the contest with a second goal.
Yet, their attacking moves often fizzled out against a determined Stellenbosch backline.
Sensing the urgency of the situation, Stellenbosch piled on the pressure from the 75th minute onwards, dominating possession and launching wave after wave of attacks in a desperate attempt to overturn the deficit.
Despite their efforts, the South African side could not find a breakthrough.
Simba SC, buoyed by a solid defensive display and composed goalkeeping, held firm until the final whistle to see out the goalless draw.
Their aggregate 1-0 triumph sends them through to the CAF Confederation Cup final, denying Stellenbosch the chance to contest their first-ever continental final.
For Simba, the result represents a major milestone as they now stand just one match away from claiming a prestigious African title.
Stellenbosch, meanwhile, exit the competition with pride, having pushed the Tanzanians all the way in a hard-fought semi-final that showcased their growing stature on the African stage.
