ANGOLA: SIMBA Head Coach, Fadlu Davids has underscored the significance of their upcoming CAF Confederation Cup match against Bravo do Maquis, describing it as a critical away game they must win.
Davids highlighted the need for caution, given the strong home form of their opponents. Simba have travelled to Angola for the match that will take place at Estádio 11 de Novembro in Talatona on Sunday.
In his pre-match remarks, Davis acknowledged the challenge posed by the Angolan side and stressed the importance of delivering a smart and controlled performance to secure the essential three points.
“This match will be quite different from our last one,” Davids noted. “We are up against a team that thrives at home, so we must be strategic in our approach.”
He added: “It’s crucial that we don’t let them dictate the tempo of the game. Instead of playing to their strengths, we must maintain control, both with and without the ball.”
Bravo do Maquis boast a strong home record in the CAF Confederation Cup, having won both of their home matches with a 3-2 scoreline, defeating CS Sfaxien and CS Constantine.
Their playing style is characterised by an open, attacking approach, with a high-pressing game and a sharp attacking line.
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However, their defence remains vulnerable, as evidenced by their recent performances— scoring six goals in their last two home matches but also conceding four.
This makes the contest between Simba and Bravo do Maquis closely balanced and highly intriguing. Simba, on the other hand, have a better away record, with one loss to CS Constantine (2- 1) and a win over CS Sfaxien (1-0).
Their ability to score in both away matches gives them an advantage, as long as they capitalise on the opportunities they create. This strong away form put Simba in a favourable position heading into the match.
“The result on Sunday is important for us to qualify, but we are also focused on the bigger picture. After this, we still have to face Constantine and that will also be a key match,” Davids added.
Sunday’s match is a mustwin for both teams, with each side aiming to secure a crucial qualification spot. Simba currently sit second in CAF Confederation Cup Group A with nine points, tied with CS Constantine, while Bravo do Maquis are third with six points.
This promises to be a fierce battle, with neither team willing to give an inch, as both are fighting for their qualification hopes.
If Simba win, they will reach 12 points, virtually securing their place in the knockout stage. Maquis, a loss would end their qualification hopes, but the outcome will depend on the result of the CS Constantine against CS Sfaxien match.
If Constantine lose and Simba win, Bravo will still have a chance to fight for a spot in the final match against Sfaxien. However, if both Simba and Constantine win, the quarterfinal qualifiers from the group will be confirmed.
