Simba SC lost the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup final 2-0 against Moroccan side RS Berkane, but the club’s head coach Fadlu Davids remains confident they can overturn the result in the return leg in Dar es Salaam.
Speaking after the match, Fadlu praised his players for staying focused despite conceding two early goals. He explained that the pressure of playing in such a big final, especially for many young players experiencing it for the first time, affected their composure in the early stages.
"My players stayed in the game even after conceding two quick goals. I believe it was the pressure of the final that affected them, especially since many are young and it’s their first time playing at this level," said Fadlu.
The coach recalled Simba’s past experiences of coming from behind, stating that the team has previously overturned 2-0 deficits and that playing at their home ground—Benjamin Mkapa Stadium—before 60,000 fans makes a huge difference.
"We’ve been in this situation before. But when we play at home, things are different. This is Simba—a big club with passionate supporters," he added.
Fadlu also called on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to grant Simba the right to play the return leg at their home stadium, just as Berkane did.
"Just like Berkane played at home, we also deserve the right to use our home ground. It’s not fair to be forced to play at a neutral venue. That said, Simba is ready to play anywhere—Benjamin Mkapa, Amaan Stadium, or even here in Berkane," he stated firmly.
Additionally, Fadlu suggested that RS Berkane might regret not scoring a third goal, emphasizing that a two-goal deficit is nothing Simba can’t handle at home.
"I think Berkane will regret not scoring a third goal. Two goals for us is nothing. This is Simba, and we’ll come back stronger in the return leg," he declared confidently.
The second leg is scheduled for next week, with the hopes of many Tanzanians resting on Simba’s squad to make history by winning their first-ever CAF Confederation Cup title
