Tanzania envoys on CAF away mission

DAR ES SALAAM: TONIGHT promises to be an exciting night of African football as two of Tanzania’s most prominent clubs, Simba and Young Africans, embark on crucial away fixtures in their respective continental campaigns.

Simba are aiming for a vital victory in the CAF Confederation Cup as they face FC Bravos do Maquis at the 11 de Novembro Stadium in Talatona, Angola, at 7:00 PM (East African Time).

Yanga are also on a highstakes mission as they take on Al-Hilal of Sudan in the CAF Champions League at the Cheikha Ould Boïdiya Stadium in Nouakchott, Mauritania, at 10:00 PM (East Africa Time).

Both teams understand that the path to success in their respective competitions relies heavily on securing the crucial away victories. Simba focused on dominating tempo in Maquis encounter .

Speaking ahead of the encounter, Simba’s Coach, Fadlu Davids, highlighted the need for his team to dictate the pace of the game and avoid falling into the chaotic, transitional style that the Angolan side thrives on.

“We are focused on controlling the game, especially when we have possession of the ball,” said Davids.

“In our previous match against Bravo, the game turned into a back-and-forth affair and that’s exactly the kind of play they excel at. We cannot afford to let that happen again if we want to get the result we are aiming for.” The coach added that during their first encounter they learnt valuable lessons.

He noted that the match was a game of two halves, with Simba in control during the first half, but Maquis capitalising on the second half to shift the momentum.

Davids is determined not to repeat those mistakes. “We have to avoid turning the match into a transitional game.

FC Bravos are dangerous in that situation, particularly with their fast counter-attacks and ability to press high up the pitch,” he explained.

“If we can control the tempo and not get sucked into their style, we will have a better chance of coming out on top.”

Despite some logistical challenges, including delays with training equipment upon arrival in Angola, the coach remains optimistic about his team’s preparation.

“The weather here is similar to what we’re used to in Dar es Salaam, so that won’t be a problem. We’re ready for the match,” Davids added. Although he refrained from revealing the starting lineup, the coach anticipates a tough battle ahead, acknowledging the strengths of Maquis both at home and away.

“They are a team that adapts well to different situations, whether playing at home or on the road,” said Davids. “Their attacking play is aggressive and they rely heavily on quick transitions.

It’s a different challenge for us, but one we are prepared for.” Simba’s chances in the Confederation Cup quarters As of now, Simba are in a solid position, sitting second in Group A with nine points, the same as the group leaders, CS Constantine.

A win against Maquis would push Simba to 12 points, almost certainly guaranteeing their qualification regardless of the result in the final match against CS Constantine.

The math behind this is simple: CS Constantine would have to win both of their remaining matches for them to secure the top spot in the group.

However, even with such results, Simba’s 12 points would be too much for thirdplaced Maquis (who currently have six points) to overcome, as they can earn a maximum of 12 points.

The task ahead for Simba is clear; to win the match in Angola, ensuring that their final game against CS Constantine is less of a high-pressure affair.

Yanga Coach Ramovic calls for creativity and determination Yanga’s Coach, Sead Ramovic has called for creativity and determination ahead of Al-Hilal clash Ahead of Yanga’s crucial CAF Champions League match against Sudanese side Al-Hilal, Coach Ramovic made it clear that his team must show creativity and confidence to secure a vital win.

“We have a clear plan and we must demonstrate that we can score goals and win,” Ramovic stated.

“We are facing a team with a very strong defensive set-up, so we need to be creative and make the most of our chances.

It’s crucial that we show our growth as a team, take every opportunity seriously and have the courage to attack in order to create a path to victory.”

Ramovic acknowledged the strength of Al-Hilal, who are known for their fast-paced style of play. He emphasised the need for his side to be well-prepared to handle the Sudanese team’s speed and agility on the field. “They play with great pace and we need to be ready to face that challenge,” he continued.

“Over the past few months, we’ve made significant progress and have become a stronger team. This is a result of our hard work and the steps we continue to take.”

ALSO READ: Simba cautious on Maquis game

The Young Africans coach also highlighted the importance of avoiding mistakes, stressing that his side cannot afford to lose opportunities against such a formidable opponent.

“We don’t want to be the first to lose an opportunity against our opponents,” Ramovic added. “Ultimately, we will give everything to achieve our goal and we understand that winning is the most important thing.

We are taking this match very seriously.” Yanga’s task in the Champions League Yanga are facing a daunting challenge in the CAF Champions’ League Group A.

With only four points after four matches, they find themselves in third place, behind leaders Al Hilal, who have 10 points and second-placed MC Alger with eight points.

Yanga must secure wins in both of their remaining matches; first, they face Al Hilal and then they will return home to face MC Alger.

To qualify, Yanga need to beat both Al Hilal and MC Alger to reach 10 points, which would put them in direct competition with MC Alger for second place in the group.

The chances of qualification hinge on the result of their encounter with MC Alger at home, especially since MC Alger hold a better head-tohead record.

The scenario becomes even more critical because MC Alger won 1-0 against TP Mazembe on Friday thereby further solidified their hold on second place.

For Yanga, their defence must tighten, as they have conceded six goals in four matches, an aspect they must improve if they hope to compete with the likes of Al Hilal and MC Alger.

Furthermore, the team will have to find ways to perform better away from home, as demonstrated by their 2-0 loss to Al Hilal in their previous away outing.