CAFCC: President Samia to Simba SC: ‘You have brought great honour’

Photo Credit - Simba SC Tanzania.

Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan has led the country to congratulate Simba SC for their historic success to reach the final of CAF Confederation Cup.

Having beaten South African outfit Stellenbosch 1-0 at the New Aman Stadium in Zanzibar during the first leg semi-final clash, the Msimbazi Reds managed to withstand pressure and secure a 0-0 draw at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban and reach the final on a 1-0 aggregate scoreline.

The achievement marked a historic return to the final for Simba, a feat not seen since 1993 when they reached the final of the then CAF Cup, but were defeated by Stella Club d’Adjamé of Ivory Coast 2-0 in the return leg at the then National Stadium, now Uhuru Stadium. Simba had forced an away 0-0 draw in the first leg in Abidjan.

Their success has caught the attention of President Samia, who expressed her pride and admiration for the team’s hard work and determination, which have earned them a place in the final.

“Sincere congratulations to Simba Sports Club for their victory in CAF Confederation Cup and for making history by reaching the final. You have brought great honour to our country. I wish you all the best. You have my full support at all times,” the Head of State wrote on her social media accounts.

Simba will now face RS Berkane in the final, who reached the same stage following a 4-1 on aggregate win after winning 4-0 in the first leg and falling 1-0 in the return leg played on Sunday in Algeria against CS Constantine.

The first leg of the final will be played on May 17th in Morocco, while the return leg will be on May 25th in either Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar or the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.