Simba, Azam set for CAF interclub debuts

DAR ES SALAAM: SIMBA SC and Azam FC are set to begin their CAF interclub campaigns with high hopes in their respective group-stage openers. At the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Simba will host Angolan side Petro de Luanda in their CAF Champions League opener.

In the CAF Confederation Cup, Azam FC will kick off their group-stage campaign away in the Democratic Republic of Congo against AS Maniema Union. The match is a historic one for Azam, as they compete in the group stage for the first time in their history.

Ahead of the match, Simba’s Coach Selemani Matola set a determined tone, stressing that their goal this season is a semi-final spot, which starts with a strong home performance.

“Preparations have gone well. In the Champions League, every match is tough, so we approached every game with caution,” Matola said.

Also, Matola noted two key players goalkeeper Moussa Camara and central defender Abdulrazack Hamza will miss due to injury. Despite this setback, Matola remains confident in his squad’s readiness.

Midfielder Joshua Mutale shared his coach’s confidence, emphasising the team’s unity and commitment.

“We are ready to start the group stage on a positive note. We’ll give our all for the fans who support us,” said Mutale.

Azam FC, on the other hand, are looking to build on their remarkable qualification run. Captain Lusajo Mwaikenda spoke confidently ahead of their clash with AS Maniema, acknowledging the challenge but stressing the squad’s motivation.

“We know how tough they can be, but every player is eager to give his best,” Mwaikenda said.

Azam qualified for the group stage with a record 9-0 aggregate victory over KMKM, raising expectations for their continental campaign.