Simba SC have kicked off preparations for their decisive CAF Confederation Cup return leg match against Egypt’s Al Masry, set to take place on April 9 at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
The Tanzanian giants are aiming to overturn a 2-0 defeat suffered in the first leg on April 2 at the Suez Stadium in Egypt.
Speaking during a fan engagement event held at Mbezi Sokoni, Simba’s Media and Communications Manager, Ahmed Ally, said the team remains optimistic despite the setback.
“Those results are not a reason to lose hope — if anything, they give us more strength. Our target remains the same: reaching the semi-finals this season,” he said.
“Losing the first leg doesn’t take us off track. From day one, we’ve believed in this journey, and we still do. This isn’t the Simba that backs down. This Simba is headed to the semi-finals,” Ally emphasized.
He revealed that the players had sent a message to fans through him:
“I came here today to tell you that the players are confident. They asked me to deliver a message — that this is not the time to doubt. We’re going through. But for us to succeed, we need unity and collective strength. If we stay together as one, I guarantee we’ll make it.”
Ally also called on fans to show discipline and avoid any form of misconduct during the match. “Let’s support the team with passion and order. Let’s fill the stadium with energy and push our boys to the next round.”
He expressed pride in Simba’s role as Tanzania’s sole representative in the continental tournament, saying, “This is something to be proud of. We are flying the flag for our country, and we must stand together to support that.”
As the match approaches, Ally urged fans to turn up in large numbers and purchase tickets early to boost the team’s morale and increase the chances of securing a positive result at home.