Joseph Isangura
Tanzanian football giants Simba SC began their CAF Confederation Cup group stage campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Angola’s Bravos do Maquis.
The match, played at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on November 27, 2024, witnessed an electrifying atmosphere as fans rallied behind the home team.
Simba’s decisive moment came in the 52nd minute, courtesy of Jean Baleke, who capitalized on a defensive lapse by the visitors. His clinical finish ensured Simba secured all three points in their Group A opener.
Commanding Performance on Home Turf
The home side dominated possession, particularly in the midfield, where Clatous Chama orchestrated the game with precision passes and creative play. Simba created several scoring opportunities, although their forwards struggled to convert in the first half.
Coach Roberto Oliveira lauded the team’s resilience, highlighting their tactical discipline and teamwork. “This victory is a testament to the players’ hard work and focus. We approached the game with a clear strategy, and the results are evident,” Oliveira said during the post-match press conference.
Bravos’ Late Push Falls Short
Bravos do Maquis, though under pressure for much of the game, launched a spirited fightback in the final 15 minutes. The Angolan side came close to equalizing, but Simba’s defense, led by Joash Onyango and Mohamed Hussein, held firm. Goalkeeper Ally Salim made a crucial save in the dying moments, preserving the home side’s clean sheet.
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Group A Standings and Upcoming Matches
The victory propels Simba to the top of Group A, providing a morale boost as they gear up for their next encounter. With matches against tough opponents ahead, Simba’s management emphasized the importance of maintaining focus to secure advancement to the knockout stage.
Fans at the stadium expressed their elation, with many praising the team’s performance and commitment. The result also reignited hopes of a strong Tanzanian representation in continental football this season.
Looking Forward
Simba SC will look to build on this momentum in their next group stage match, slated for early December. Meanwhile, Bravos do Maquis will aim to regroup and make adjustments as they seek redemption in their forthcoming fixture.
