CAFCC: Simba SC respect RS Berkane's record but ‘we don’t fear them’ – Davids

Photo Credit - Simba SC Tanzania.

Simba SC coach Fadlu Davids has revealed their plans to get a positive result from the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup final against RS Berkane at Stade Municipal de Berkane on Saturday.

The South African tactician emphasised the team’s solidity at the back as they prepared for their first-ever final in the inter-club competition. The Msimbazi Reds reached the showpiece following a 1-0 aggregate semi-final win against Stellenbosch of South Africa.

“We are going into this match as a mentally and tactically mature team,” said Davids ahead of the first leg. “We’ve prepared thoroughly from the back to the front, and I am particularly pleased with the central defense.

“Abdulazack Hamza, Che Malone Fondoh, and Chamou Karaboue have demonstrated strength and cohesion that gives us confidence. We respect the records, but we do not fear them.”

The last time Simba played Berkane in Morocco, they suffered a 2-0 defeat. Asked whether they are bothered by the poor record while playing away in the North African nation, Davids replied: “Yes, the records show we haven’t had good results in Morocco, but this is a new team, a new mindset. We are ready for the battle.”

He continued: “It will be very important for us to manage the moments of the game, and this is where we talk about experience, this is where experienced players are able to manage the big moments and of course, playing here at this stadium. We know this stadium, we know the coach, and it is very important for our players to focus on football.

“Also my players should have clear objectives of what they want from the game, what they do with the ball, what they can do without the ball, and of course, stick to our style, stick to our philosophy, and how we approaching the game, trying to play intensity football, and we know what to expect from RS Berkane.

“They (Berkane) have a good defensive line, they are very tight at the back, so we must be prepared to break them down, play our football, and focus on our plan, focus on how we are going to approach the match, and how to handle the big moments. Whether you are on top, whether you have the ball or you don’t have the ball, we must be able to defend without the ball, and we should avoid trying to play to the occasion.”