Photo Credit - Simba SC Tanzania.
The Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) had ordered the closure of Benjamin Mkapa Stadium for further renovation throwing the Simba SC versus Al Masry Caf Confederation Cup quarter-final fixture that was to be played at the same venue into doubt.
According to a statement from Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) obtained by Pan-Africa Football, the African body has raised concerns with the state of the playing surface and as such ordered the pitch to be closed for improvement.
TFF further said CAF had warned should the pitch continue to be used, then it will be closed for a longer period than expected. “CAF have ordered for the closure of Mkapa Stadium for a period of time to help improve on the playing surface,” read part of the statement.
Statement from TFF.
“CAF have directed that the playing surface should be worked on as quickly as possible or else the venue will face a lengthy period without use. The quarter-final fixture between Simba SC and Al Masry from Egypt was planned to be played there on April 9, 2025.
“TFF are now requested to send a new venue for the fixture to CAF before March 14, 2025.”
The statement continued: “CAF will return to Tanzania to investigate the pitch surface on March 20, before approving whether the pitch will be allowed for use or to remain closed.”
Apart from the Simba fixture, Mkapa Stadium has been used to host Mainland Premier League matches, especially those involving top sides Simba and Yanga.
The Benjamin Mkapa is being prepared to host the 2024 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament to be co-hosted alongside Kenya and Uganda.
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