Simba edge Stellenbosch in narrow TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup semi-final first leg
Published: Sunday, 20 April 2025
Tanzanian giants Simba SC took a slim advantage in the first leg of their TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup semi-final, defeating South Africa's Stellenbosch FC 1-0 in a tightly-contested encounter in Dar es Salaam on Sunday.
Jean Ahoua's expertly taken free-kick just before half-time proved decisive at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on Sunday, with the Ivorian defender firing low into the corner after a VAR review overturned a prior foul. It capped off a first-half performance in which Simba looked sharper and more composed in possession.
The result gives Simba a slender edge going into the return leg in South Africa, but Stellenbosch—playing in their maiden CAF competition—will take heart from their resilient showing and the narrow margin.
Stellenbosch entered the clash riding a wave of confidence after their stunning quarter-final elimination of defending champions Zamalek. But they found Simba a different kind of challenge—more physical, more aggressive, and roared on by a boisterous home crowd.
Simba created the better chances throughout, with Elie Mpanzu and Steven Mukwala proving constant threats. Mpanzu forced multiple saves from Stellenbosch goalkeeper Oscarine Masuluke, while Mukwala's movement opened space for overlapping fullbacks and runners from midfield.
The visitors' best opportunity came in the 27th minute, when Devin Titus' powerful header drew a sharp stop from Simba keeper Ally Salim. Stellenbosch nearly levelled late on, but Fawaaz Basadien's speculative strike flew wide in added time.
The game grew tense in the second half, with bookings for both sides and limited rhythm due to injuries and substitutions. Stellenbosch manager Steve Barker introduced fresh legs, including Langelihle Phili and Genino Palace, but they failed to break down Simba's compact shape.
Simba, led by South African coach Fadlu Davids, will be satisfied with the clean sheet and home win but know the job is only half done. They must now prepare for a potentially hostile second leg in the Western Cape, where Stellenbosch have already proven they can unsettle giants.
With a place in the final at stake, the stage is set for a dramatic conclusion in South Africa.
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