Simba SC is fully prepared for the first leg of the 2024/25 CAF Confederation Cup final against Moroccan giants RS Berkane, set to be played on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the Berkane Municipal Stadium.
This is a historic match for the Msimbazi Reds, who have a chance to make history by winning a continental title.
However, preparations for the final have been disrupted by uncertainty following a sudden announcement by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) regarding a change of venue for the second leg — from Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam to the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar.
The news has shocked many Simba fans who had already begun making arrangements to attend the match at Mkapa Stadium.
Despite this, Simba's management has urged calm, calling on fans and players to focus their energy and attention on the first leg of the final.
Further details about the second leg and its venue will be provided by Simba after the first leg in Morocco.
Simba’s Journey to the Final
Simba was placed in Group A along with:
-
CS Constantine (Algeria)
-
Bravos do Maquis (Angola)
-
CS Sfaxien (Tunisia)
They topped the group with 13 points, having won 4 matches, drawn 1, and lost 1 — edging out CS Constantine who finished with 12 points.
Quarterfinals:
They faced Al Masry of Egypt. After a 2-2 aggregate draw, Simba advanced by winning the penalty shootout 4-1.
Semifinals:
They showed great composure against South Africa’s Stellenbosch FC, winning 1-0 on aggregate over two legs to reach the final.
Why Simba Can Beat RS Berkane
Although RS Berkane are two-time champions of this competition (2020 & 2022), Simba has every reason to believe they can get a positive result.
Under Coach Fadlu Davids, Simba has surprised many with their performance in this season's tournament. It’s worth noting that the squad was heavily rebuilt, with more than 15 new players signed during the last two transfer windows.
The team has shown steady improvement at every stage and is now at the peak of its performance, demonstrating readiness to face any opponent on the continent.
In the CAF rankings, Simba is currently ranked fourth, ahead of RS Berkane who are in fifth place.
Simba understands the importance of securing a good result away from home. A draw or narrow win in the first leg could give them a significant advantage heading into the return leg.
