As Simba SC gears up for their quarterfinal match against Egypt’s AlMasry in the CAF Confederation Cup (CAFCC), the team’s confidence is growing, bolstered by a string of solid preparations and high morale.
With the match scheduled for April 2, 2025, in Suez, Egypt, the Tanzanian giants are determined to break their quarterfinal curse and reach the semifinals for the first time in years.
Currently based in Ismailia, Simba’s players are leaving no stone unturned in their quest for success. The team has been training for four consecutive days, working tirelessly to ensure they are in peak physical condition ahead of their clash with AlMasry.
They are making final adjustments to their tactics and are focused on ensuring that their performance on the pitch meets the standards expected of a club of their stature.
The team is eager to make a lasting impact and advance in the tournament, which has eluded them in previous years.
Speaking to the press on March 30, 2025, CPA Issa Masoud, a member of Simba’s Board of Directors, discussed the team’s goals for the CAFCC.
Reflecting on past disappointments, he acknowledged that Simba has consistently fallen short at the quarterfinal stage in international competitions, a hurdle that has left them yearning for more. However, Masoud expressed a strong belief that this year would be different.
"We have often struggled at the quarterfinals in international tournaments. It’s time for us to push beyond that and make it to the next stage," Masoud remarked. "
The team has traveled to Egypt early, fully aware of the significance of this match, and they are ready to put in the hard work necessary for success."
Simba has always been a force to be reckoned with in Tanzanian football, but their past performances on the continental stage have been mixed.
The team’s failure to progress past the quarterfinals in previous CAFCC editions has been a source of frustration for both players and supporters alike.
This season, however, Simba seems to have found a renewed sense of purpose. With solid performances in the earlier stages of the competition and the backing of their loyal fans, the team believes they are capable of achieving their goal of reaching the semifinals.
As the team continues to prepare in Ismailia, Masoud highlighted the impressive level of commitment and determination displayed by the players.
According to him, the squad is in excellent physical condition and is highly motivated, with a strong sense of unity and focus driving their preparations.
The players are well aware of the challenge that lies ahead and are eager to give their best to ensure the team’s success.
"The players are in high spirits, they’re in great health, and they’ve been working hard in training," Masoud added. "
There’s a real sense of determination among them, and they’re ready to take on AlMasry in what is going to be a tough match. We believe in their ability to deliver the results we need."
With the team’s preparation in full swing, Masoud also took the opportunity to call on Simba’s supporters to rally behind the players. He urged fans to continue their unwavering support and to keep the team in their thoughts as they face this crucial away game.
"I want to appeal to all Simba supporters to keep praying for us and to continue to back the team," Masoud said. "
We need their positive energy and support to help us achieve our goal. If we can get a good result in Egypt, we can finish strong at home and qualify for the semifinals."
Simba’s push for the CAFCC semifinals is not just a reflection of their ambition but also a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coaching staff, and the entire club.
The team’s journey in the competition has been filled with challenges, but with their sights firmly set on the semifinals, Simba is ready to show that they are more than capable of going the distance.
As the clock ticks down to their eagerly awaited match in Egypt, Simba’s players and supporters are united in their belief that this year, the team will finally break through the quarterfinal barrier and achieve the success they have been striving for on the continental stage.
