Simba, Al Ahly Tripoli draw in CAF Clash
TRIPOLI: SIMBA and Al Ahly Tripoli shared the spoils in a gripping battle for a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage at the 11 June Stadium in Tripoli, Libya.
The match, marked by tactical manoeuvring and physical intensity, ended in a hard-fought 0-0 draw, setting the stage for an electrifying return leg at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on Sunday.
From the outset, both teams engaged in a high-stakes contest brimming with drama and strategic depth.
Al Ahly Tripoli, eager to capitalize on their home advantage, launched their assault early. By the 19th minute, Agostinho Mabululu spearheaded a counterattack with dazzling skill.
He controlled the ball deftly with his chest and fired a powerful shot towards the goal. Yet, Simba’s goalkeeper, Moussa Camara, showcased his brilliance, diving with agility to make a crucial save and keep the scoreboard untouched.
The 31st minute nearly saw Simba break the deadlock when Jean Ahua pounced on a defensive lapse by Al Ahly Tripoli. Spotting the goalkeeper off his line, Ahua unleashed a fierce strike that whizzed past the post by mere inches, leaving the crowd and players alike holding their breath.
As the first half wound down, Al Ahly Tripoli intensified their pressure with a corner kick that delivered a tense moment for Simba.
The set-piece was met with determined resistance as Simba’s defence, anchored by Camara, executed a well-timed clearance to neutralize the threat.
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The second half burst into life with a palpable surge of energy from the home side, driven by the fervent support of their fans.
The stadium erupted in a sea of vibrant colours and relentless chants, the atmosphere charged with electric anticipation.
The crowd’s passionate encouragement seemed to infuse their team with newfound vigour, and Al Ahly Tripoli seized control, orchestrating a flurry of intricate one-touch and diagonal passes.
Despite their relentless offensive efforts, Simba’s defence remained a formidable barrier. The hosts’ repeated attempts to breach the box were thwarted by a resolute backline that stood firm under pressure.
The dynamic interplay between the teams, combined with the unyielding crowd support, transformed the game into a thrilling spectacle.
Adding to the drama, Al Ahly Tripoli bolstered their attack with the introduction of Ahmed Kraouaa in the 80th minute. Kraouaa’s presence injected fresh energy into the forward line, creating new challenges for Simba’s defenders.
His partnership with Mabululu intensified the pressure on Simba, culminating in a dramatic moment when Kraouaa’s attempt struck the woodwork, narrowly missing the chance to break the deadlock.
As the final whistle blew, a collective sigh of relief swept through the Simba camp. The match had been a relentless test of skill and endurance, with both sides showcasing their tactical acumen and physical prowess.
With the aggregate score still level, all eyes will now turn to the return leg at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, where the quest for a place in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage will reach its thrilling conclusion.
