Tanzanian football powerhouse Simba SC have reached the final of the CAF Confederation Cup after holding Stellenbosch FC to a goalless draw in the semi-final second leg played in Durban, South Africa.
Simba secured a 1-0 win in the first leg held at the Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar, and that crucial goal proved enough to see them through on aggregate.
The match began with high intensity, and Simba were awarded a penalty in the 14th minute. However, after a VAR review, the decision was overturned, denying them an early chance to extend their lead. Stellenbosch's T. Khiba was shown a yellow card in the 31st minute following a rough challenge.
Both teams failed to find the net in the first half, which ended 0-0, with Simba maintaining their slim advantage thanks to the first-leg goal.
The second half mirrored the first, with both sides creating chances but unable to convert. In the 53rd minute, Simba made their first change, bringing on Leanal Ateba for Steven Mukwala to inject fresh energy into the attack.
Stellenbosch thought they had a lifeline when they were awarded a penalty in the 56th minute, but VAR once again came into play and cancelled the decision. Two minutes later, T. Moloisane of Stellenbosch was cautioned with a yellow card.
In the 64th minute, Stellenbosch made a double substitution, introducing G. Palace for C. Butsaka and S. Barns for K. Lekoloane. Simba responded swiftly, replacing Debera Fernandes with Jean Ahoua in the 65th minute.
As the game approached full-time, Simba made a final change in the 87th minute, with Che Malone Fondoh making way for Elie Mpanzu, who later picked up a yellow card.
Despite the relentless pressure from the home side, Simba’s defense held firm, securing a 0-0 draw on the night and a 1-0 aggregate victory over the two legs.
Simba now march into the final of the CAF Confederation Cup, a historic moment that marks a major milestone in their continental campaign.