CAFCC: Simba advance past Al Masry to semifinals after penalty shootout victory

Photo Credit: Simba SC Tanzania

Tanzanian giants Simba SC are through to the semifinals of the CAF Confederation Cup after triumphing over Egypt's Al Masry in a penalty kick shootout following a 2-0 second leg victory in Dar es Salaam. Team leader Shomari Kapombe fired in the winning penalty kick for Simba who advance on penalties after being eliminated in shootouts the past two years in the Confederation Cup.

With heavy vocal support behind them, Simba overwhelmed their opponents from Egypt early and often. In the 22nd minute, Elie Mpanzu confirmed Simba's dominance with the opening goal by collecting a quick throw-in before firing his shot past Masry goalkeeper Mahmoud Gad.

Simba continued their onslaught and ten minutes later the tie was level on aggregate. Left back Mohamed Hussein sent in a perfect cross to find Ugandan striker Steven Mukwala who placed his header perfectly to make it 2-0 and 2-2 on aggregate.

Al Masry were able to hold out until halftime and put in a better defensive effort in the second half. Using time wasting tactics and a cautious approach, the visitors were able to keep Simba from finding a winning goal. Kapombe came closest to scoring at the end of second half stoppage time but fired his low effort just wide.

However, Simba were perfect in the penalty shootout and Guinean goalkeeper Moussa Camara came up big. The former Horoya keeper saved Masry's first spot kick from Mido Gaber and then denied Mahmoud Hamada on the third attempt while Jean-Charles Ahoua, Mukwala, Dibu Denis and Kapombe all converted to set up a semifinal clash with either South Africa's Stellenbosch FC or defending champions Zamalek of Egypt.

Full Penalty Shootout