DAR ES SALAAM: SIMBA’S Head Coach, Fadlu Davids, has provided insight into the decision to give limited game time to the Congolese right winger, Elie Mpanzu, during their recent 1-0 win against CS Sfaxien in the CAF Confederation Cup Group A match.
Davids emphasised that the strategy was aimed at gradually integrating Mpanzu into the team’s playing style while carefully managing his fitness.
Speaking after jetting in Dar es Salaam from Tunisia, Davids clarified that balancing game time with long-term player availability was a key part of the plan. “Match by match, he is getting fitter and fitter,” said the gaffer.
However, he unveiled that the winger should now be ready to complete 90 minutes, noting that it is about building up his match minutes steadily as they do not want to overburden him and risk sidelining him for weeks.
The coach expressed his satisfaction with Mpanzu’s progress, noting the player’s growing ability to adapt to the team’s system.
“I am very happy with him so far. He is progressing well,” he added.
Despite the victory, Davids acknowledged that the match against CS Sfaxien was challenging. He attributed the difficulties to the poor condition of the pitch, which made it harder for Simba to play their usual game.
“The pitch wasn’t ideal—lots of sand and uneven surfaces—so we couldn’t really execute our style of football. But the most important thing was the result and the players followed the tactical plan,” said Davids.
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Looking ahead, Davids reiterated the team’s primary objective is qualifying for the CAF Confederation Cup quarter-finals and stated that securing at least a draw in their upcoming match against Bravos do Maquis would guarantee progression to the knockout stages.
“We need a draw in the next match to qualify, and then we need to win the final match at home to top the group. As always, our first goal is to qualify as quickly as possible and then we’ll focus on finishing top of the group,” Davids explained.
Acknowledging the challenges Bravos do Maquis pose on their home ground, Davids highlighted the importance of tactical discipline and respect for the opposition.
“It will be a tough game. They’ve beaten Constantine at home; they’re a strong team on their turf. But we’ll give our best. We know a draw will qualify us a victory would be even better.
We need either two wins or a draw and a win to top the group and that’s our focus,” said the coach.
Currently, CS Constantine lead Group A with nine points, while CS Sfaxien remain at the bottom without a point. As the group stage nears its conclusion, Simba’s priority is advancing as group leaders.
