CAF extols Tanzania for venue efforts
EGYPT: THE Confederation of African Football (CAF) has praised the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) and the Government for their committed efforts to upgrade Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, even though the venue was ultimately ruled unfit to host the CAF Confederation Cup 2024/25 final second-leg match.
Initially chosen by both TFF and Simba SC as the preferred venue for the high-stake clash against RS Berkane, Benjamin Mkapa Stadium was undergoing critical renovations aimed at meeting CAF’s strict hosting criteria.
However, with time running short, the stadium failed to meet the required standards, leading to CAF officially relocating the match to the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar. The highly anticipated final is set to take place this Sunday.
In a statement posted late Tuesday on its official website, CAF expressed sincere gratitude for the collaborative efforts between Tanzanian football authorities and government bodies.
“CAF is grateful to the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF), its President Wallace Karia and the Tanzania’s Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports for the productive meetings, discussions and their proactive contributions to help Benjamin Mkapa Stadium comply with CAF regulations and standards,” the statement reads in part.
While the stadium’s renovation progress was commendable, a final inspection conducted by an independent, internationally recognised stadium assessment firm concluded that the upgrade works would not be completed in time for the final.
“Unfortunately, due to time constraints, the assessment report confirmed that the necessary repairs and upgrades could not be finalised ahead of the scheduled match,” the statement added.
As a result, the New Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar has been confirmed as the alternative venue. The move ensures that the final leg of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup is held in a stadium that meets CAF’s stringent safety and quality standards, safeguarding both players and fans.
CAF reiterated that the decision aligns with its broader infrastructure policy spearheaded by CAF President Patrice Motsepe. The policy emphasises inclusivity and support for all 54 member associations in hosting international matches at home—provided the chosen stadiums meet CAF’s certification standards.
“This commitment is in accordance with the new policy introduced by CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe, which mandates the CAF Secretariat to cooperate with and support local football bodies in ensuring that every club and national team play in a stadium identified and preferred by their leadership—so long as it complies with CAF regulations,” the statement explained.
While the venue change may disappoint some fans in Dar es Salaam, the decision to relocate ensures the final is staged in a safe, compliant and high-quality environment, preserving the prestige of the competition and upholding CAF’s commitment to fair play and professional standards.
Now all eyes turn to the New Amaan Complex this Sunday at 3pm CAT as Simba SC and RS Berkane lock horns in a high-stakes finale to the 2024/25 TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup.
With Berkane carrying a 2-0 advantage from the first leg, Simba SC will need all their resilience, firepower and home support in Zanzibar to stage a thrilling comeback.
The atmosphere promises to be electric as Simba SC look to overturn the deficit and snatch continental glory, while RS Berkane aim to seal their triumph on foreign soil. With a brand-new trophy awaiting the winner and a place in CAF history at stake, this clash is set to deliver drama, passion and football at its finest.
