While other Tanzanian representatives in the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup have opted to play their group stage matches at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar, reports indicate that Simba SC may choose to use the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
Clubs Azam FC and Singida Black Stars, who are competing in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage, have confirmed their decision to host their home matches at the Amaan Complex — joining Yanga SC, which has also announced a move to Zanzibar.
Although Simba has not yet made an official statement, inside sources reveal that the club has submitted a request to the government to use the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium. Earlier this month, the government announced that the stadium would be temporarily closed for local matches due to ongoing renovations.
However, according to a statement from the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Gerson Msigwa, the stadium could still be used for international fixtures — depending on the scope and progress of the renovation work.
Simba has an impressive record in CAF competitions when playing at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, having consistently produced strong performances there.
Fans of Simba believe that no opponent can easily beat their team at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, which has become a fortress for the Msimbazi Reds — with many African football giants leaving the venue without a win.
The CAF Champions League group stage matches are set to kick off later this month, with Simba hosting Petro Atlético in their opening fixture.
