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Morale boost for Simba as key players return for RS Berkane match in CAF Confederation Cup final
Simba’s first-choice goalkeeper, Moussa Camara, dives during the team’s training session held in Zanzibar yesterday. PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- To lift the trophy for the first time in the club’s history, Simba must win 3-0 on Sunday. A 2-0 win will take the game to a penalty shoot-out, as per CAF tournament regulations
Dar es Salaam. Simba SC are in high spirits ahead of their decisive CAF Confederation Cup final second leg against Morocco's RS Berkane, scheduled for this Sunday at the state-of-the-art New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar.
The morale within the Tanzanian football giants have been significantly boosted by the return of two key players, defender Abdulrazack Hamza and attacking midfielder Kibu Dennis.
Hamza and Kibu were both forced off due to injuries in the first leg held in Morocco, which Simba lost 2-0.
Their return is not only symbolic but also practical, injecting much-needed experience, talent, and depth into the squad at a crucial moment.
Abdulrazack Hamza, who had to be substituted in the 23rd minute of the first leg after picking up an injury, is now fully fit and expected to feature in Sunday’s high-stakes encounter.
His replacement in that match, Che Malone Fondoh, performed heroically in the encounter.
Similarly, Kibu, the attacking midfielder who was withdrawn at halftime and replaced by Valentine Nouma, is also back in contention.
Known for his creative vision and playmaking ability, Kibu’s return could add the cutting edge Simba need as they look to overturn the two-goal deficit.
Simba's Information Manager, Ahmed Ally, confirmed the good news in a press briefing held shortly after the training session.
"All our players are fit now. The return of Abdulrazack Hamza and Kibu Dennis is a massive boost for us. It’s now up to the technical bench, led by coach Fadlu Davids, to decide the final squad.
The availability of all players gives the team more tactical options," said Ally.
He said that the mood within the Simba camp is one of optimism and belief despite the uphill task that lies ahead.
He explained that the players, technical team, and fans are confident the team can stage a historic comeback.
To lift the trophy for the first time in the club’s history, Simba must win 3-0 on Sunday. A 2-0 win will take the game to a penalty shoot-out, as per CAF tournament regulations.
