Simba SC staged a dramatic comeback to secure their place in the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederations Cup, defeating the Egyptian side Al Masry in a thrilling quarterfinal second leg at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
Entering the match with a 2-0 deficit from the first leg in Egypt, Simba needed an exceptional performance—and they delivered just that.
Spurred on by a passionate home crowd, the Tanzanian giants began the match with intent, urgency, and confidence. Their aggressive pressing and quick ball movement paid off early in the first half. In the 22nd minute, Elie Mpanzu opened the scoring with a powerful strike from the edge of the box, igniting hope and energy throughout the stadium.
Just ten minutes later, Steven Mukwala doubled Simba’s lead with a clinical finish, showcasing the control Simba had established over the match. The aggregate score was now tied at 2-2, and the battle for a semi-final spot was back on even terms.
In the second half, both teams pushed forward, but Simba dominated the rhythm of the game. Their possession-based play and precise passing kept Al Masry pinned back for lengthy stretches. However, despite numerous chances, Simba couldn’t find the third goal to secure the tie in regulation time.
With extra time failing to determine a winner, the match proceeded to a penalty shootout.
Under immense pressure, Simba SC kept their composure. Goalkeeper Camara emerged as the hero, saving two penalties and sending the stadium into a frenzy as Simba triumphed in the shootout.
Final score: Simba SC 2-0 Al Masry (Aggregate 2-2, Simba wins on penalties)
It was a night filled with resilience, passion, and belief in Dar es Salaam. Simba SC’s journey continues, and with the semi-finals on the horizon, the Tanzanian dream lives on.
