By Victoria Godfrey
Simba SC have taken a crucial step towards reaching their first-ever CAF Confederation Cup final after securing a narrow 1-0 victory over South Africa’s Stellenbosch FC in the first leg of the semi-final played at Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar on Sunday, April 20, 2025.
In a high-stakes encounter played under the humid coastal skies, Simba displayed resilience, tactical discipline, and just enough attacking flair to edge ahead in the two-legged tie. The game was tightly contested, with both sides creating chances but struggling to find a breakthrough for most of the first half.
The decisive moment came in the second minute of added time (45+2) when Ivorian midfielder Jean Ahoua scored the only goal of the match. Ahoua pounced on a loose ball inside the box after a deflected cross and calmly guided it into the net, sending the home crowd at the fully packed Amaan Stadium into wild celebrations.
The goal gave Simba a vital lead just before halftime and shifted the momentum of the game. After the break, Stellenbosch came out aggressively, pressing high and pushing for an equalizer. However, Simba’s defence stood firm. Goalkeeper Moussa Camara made several key interventions, while defenders Karaboue Chamou and Shomari Kapombe ensured the visitors found no way through.
Midfielders Elie Mpanzu and Fabrice Ngoma were instrumental in disrupting Stellenbosch’s rhythm and launching counterattacks, with Steven Mukwala and Kibu Denis keeping the South African side’s defence under pressure.
Despite Stellenbosch’s late surge, Simba managed the game with maturity, keeping their shape and composure to see out the 1-0 victory.
With this win, Simba take a slight but significant advantage into the return leg, scheduled for April 27 in South Africa. A draw in that match will be enough to send the Tanzanian giants into the final of a CAF competition for the first time in their history.
The result is not only a confidence boost for Simba but also a major moment for Tanzanian football. As they head into the second leg, Simba carry with them the hopes of millions of fans dreaming of continental glory.
