SIMBA SC midfielder Yusuph Kagoma could make a return to the squad this Sunday when the Tanzanian giants face Tunisia’s CS Sfaxien in their third-round group stage match of the CAF Confederation Cup.

The highly anticipated encounter will take place at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

Kagoma has been sidelined since October 19 after sustaining an injury during Simba’s Premier League derby against rivals Young Africans. However, the club’s Information and Communication Manager, Ahmed Ally, has revealed that the midfielder has fully recovered and is now available for selection.

“Kagoma has been out of action for a long time due to injuries. Now, he is fit and ready to be included in the squad if coach Fadlu Davids deems it necessary,” said Ahmed during a press briefing.

The return of Kagoma would be a significant boost for Simba, who are looking to strengthen their midfield ahead of the crucial clash.

Meanwhile, winger Joshua Mutale is also on the road to recovery after picking up an injury while representing Zambia during the international break. 

Mutale’s absence has also been a blow to Simba, as he is considered one of the key attacking options for the team.

Both Kagoma and Mutale have faced challenges with recurring injuries, which have kept them off the field for extended periods. 

Their recoveries come at a critical time for Simba, who are aiming to secure maximum points and improve their position in Group A.

Ally has called on Simba fans to purchase their tickets in advance and turn out in large numbers to support the team on Sunday. 

Speaking at a rally held in Tandika earlier this week, Ally emphasized the importance of the fans’ presence at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

“CS Sfaxien have lost both of their opening matches and will come determined to win against Simba. However, with 60,000 passionate fans behind us at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, we are confident of securing all three points and keeping them at home,” Ally stated.

He stressed that the energy of the fans will be crucial in inspiring the team to victory in this vital group-stage encounter.

Simba are currently second in Group A with three points, trailing leaders CS Constantine, who have six points from their opening two matches. 

Angola’s Bravos do Maquis are also on three points but sit third due to goal difference, while CS Sfaxien remain at the bottom with no points after back-to-back losses.

As Simba prepare to face CS Sfaxien, group leaders CS Constantine will take on Bravos do Maquis in the other Group A fixture.

Simba have been conducting their training sessions at the Mo Arena facilities in Bunju as they gear up for Sunday’s match. 

Head coach Fadlu Davids is focused on fine-tuning the team’s tactics to ensure they capitalize on their home advantage and secure a vital victory.

Sunday’s match is pivotal for Simba as they aim to strengthen their bid for a spot in the knockout stages of the CAF Confederation Cup. 

With the top two teams from each group advancing, securing three points against CS Sfaxien would solidify Simba’s position and keep their hopes alive.

Fans are expected to flock to Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in full force, creating an electric atmosphere to push the home team toward a crucial win.