Simba SC secured a crucial 1-0 victory over FC Stellenbosch in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup semi-final, setting the stage for a highly anticipated return fixture in South Africa.
The decisive moment came just before half-time at a tense and closely contested clash.
In the 43rd minute, Jean Ahoua found the back of the net following a corner, handing the Tanzanian side a slender but valuable lead. The goal, however, did not come without controversy.
Stellenbosch goalkeeper Oscarine Masuluké immediately appealed for offside, citing interference by Simba’s Kibu Denis.
After a brief delay and a consultation with the VAR, the referee allowed the goal to stand, dismissing the protests from the South African side.
Up until that point, both teams had matched each other with disciplined defensive organisation and cautious build-up play.
But the momentum clearly shifted with Ahoua’s strike, allowing Simba to head into the break with confidence.
After the restart, Stellenbosch adopted a more aggressive approach, dominating possession and pushing for an equaliser.
Despite their increased attacking urgency, they found it difficult to break through a resolute Simba defence, expertly marshalled under head coach Fadlu Davids.
Masuluké, who had been left exposed for the goal, quickly redeemed himself in the second half with a series of impressive saves.
His standout moment came midway through the second period when he denied Simba a potentially match-sealing second goal with a spectacular reaction stop.
While the Tanzanian outfit will be pleased with the result and the clean sheet, they know the tie is far from over.
A single goal separates the two sides, leaving everything to play for when the second leg takes place on April 27.
For Stellenbosch, it is now a matter of regrouping and refining their tactics.
Head coach Steve Barker will be hoping his team can find the attacking sharpness that eluded them in Dar es Salaam.
They must overturn the deficit on home soil if they are to keep their hopes of a historic final appearance alive.
Simba SC, meanwhile, will be looking to hold firm and possibly strike again on the counter to confirm their spot in the Confederation Cup final.
