Simba SC will need to produce a historic comeback on Sunday as they host RS Berkane in the decisive second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup final at Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar.
The Tanzanian giants trail 2-0 following a difficult outing in Morocco and now face a daunting mission to overturn the deficit in front of a home crowd.
The first leg in Berkane ended with the Moroccan side in firm control, thanks to two unanswered goals that have given them a clear path to their third Confederation Cup title.
Simba, meanwhile, will need a near-perfect performance to stand any chance of securing their first continental trophy.
The match, scheduled for 2:00 PM local time, takes place in Zanzibar instead of Simba’s usual venue in Dar es Salaam.
The venue change was made in accordance with directives from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), adding another layer of complexity to Simba’s challenge.
“We know it’s a big task,” a club official stated before the game. “But the players are motivated, and the support from our fans can make the difference.”
For Simba SC, the key will lie in balancing defensive discipline with aggressive attacking play.
A single away goal from RS Berkane would leave the Tanzanians needing four to win, underlining the importance of shutting down the Moroccan attack.
The pressure is immense, but Simba have shown resilience throughout their campaign and now need to summon one last monumental effort.
RS Berkane, on the other hand, arrive in Zanzibar well-positioned and full of confidence.
Having previously lifted the title in 2020 and 2022, the Moroccan outfit bring experience and tactical maturity to the fixture.
Their plan will likely centre around game management—absorbing pressure, disrupting rhythm, and exploiting spaces as Simba push forward.
“We’re not here to defend,” said an RS Berkane spokesperson. “We want to win this match too and prove we deserve the title.”
This final showdown is also a strategic duel between two clubs with contrasting styles.
Simba’s dynamic, high-energy approach will be tested against the composed and often pragmatic game of RS Berkane.
The stakes are high, with the trophy and a place in African football history awaiting the winner.
Sunday’s match will determine who follows in the footsteps of Zamalek, the 2023 champions, and claim continental glory.
For Simba SC, it is all or nothing. For RS Berkane, it is an opportunity to reaffirm their growing dominance on the African stage.
