Youthful Simba eye CAF Cup

MORROCO: SIMBA SC Head Coach Fadlu Davids has expressed confidence in his youthful side ahead of their first-leg CAF Confederation Cup clash against Moroc can giants, RS Berkane at the Stade de Berkane today.

Despite the squad’s inexperience, Fadlu is optimistic they can secure a vital away win and ultimately lift the continental trophy.

Speaking ahead of the high-stake fixture, Fadlu acknowledged that his team is still in its rebuilding phase but is progressing beyond expectations.

“At the beginning of the season, we assembled a new squad of 17 players. The age group was between 18-23 years. Of course, a new technical team, too. A new project. Simba SC are in the process of rebuilding the squad. We are ahead of schedule if you look at where we are now in terms of objectives,” he explained.

The tactician noted that this final represents an exciting opportunity for his players to create history and become part of a new chapter in the club’s journey.

“We have a relatively young squad. If you look at our team, only Fabrice Ngoma played the final during his time with Raja. It’s a new experience for all these young ones,” said the coach.

Despite their limited experience on the pitch, Fadlu believes the players’ passion and hunger for success will help them rise to the occasion.

He pointed out that while the players are largely new to the big stage, the technical team brings with it the experience required to navigate the pressures of a continental final.

“For the technical team, we had the experience (playing final) before when I was the coach of Orlando Pirates. We lost on penalties in Nige ria against RS Berkane,” he recalled.

The Simba boss added that he is impressed by the spirit and commitment shown by his players in the build-up to the final, emphasising their determination to make a mark on the continent.

“The confidence in this group is there. The hunger and desire. Our boys are determined to do something. We will do everything in our power to try and win this trophy. Inshallah,” Fadlu said.

Simba booked their place in the final after a narrow but resolute 1-0 aggregate victory over South Africa’s Stellenbosch. A disciplined defensive performance in the second leg in Durban ensured the Tanzanians held onto their first-leg lead, with goalkeeper Moussa Camara standing firm under intense pressure.

Stellenbosch, desperate to overturn the deficit, pushed forward relentlessly but could not breach the Simba de fence.

Late opportunities fell to Fawaaz Basadien, Ismaël Touré, Devin Titus and Sanele Barns, but none were converted. The home side thought they had taken the lead in the second half through Genino Palace, only for VAR to disallow the goal for offside, crushing their hopes.

During that match, Simba survived a series of late scares, including a couple of dangerous corners, but maintained their composure to seal a historic final berth.

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Now, the Tanzanian giants are on the cusp of securing their first continental title since finishing as runners-up in the 1993 CAF Cup – a dream they believe is within reach.