SIMBA Sports Club arrived back in Tanzania yesterday after securing a crucial 0-0 draw against Al Ahli Tripoli in Libya. The match, which took place at Tripoli International Stadium, was the first leg of the second preliminary round of the CAF Confederation Cup.

The goalless result keeps Simba’s hopes alive as they aim to advance to the group stage of the prestigious continental competition. 

With the second leg set for Sunday, September 22, at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, the Tanzanian giants are now focused on preparing for the decisive clash on home soil.

Simba SC’s Information and Communication Manager, Ahmed Ally (pictured), confirmed the team’s arrival in Dar es Salaam and revealed that the club’s preparations had gone well in Tripoli, where the players underwent recovery sessions before embarking on their journey back to Tanzania.

“After our match against Al Ahli Tripoli, the team had a light training session to help the players recover. We have returned to Tanzania, and the squad continues with specialized recovery exercises,” Ally said. 

He also provided a positive update on the team’s physical condition, stating that no player suffered any significant injuries during the match, including goalkeeper Aishi Manula, who experienced a minor issue while entering the field.

“Manula had a small challenge as he entered the pitch on match day, but he is doing well now. I would like to reassure our fans that the players are in good shape and fully focused on the return leg,” he added.

Ally went on to urge Simba fans to come out in full force to support the team in the upcoming match at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium. He emphasized the importance of fan support, encouraging them to fill the stadium and create a vibrant atmosphere that could boost the team’s chances of victory.

“We need our fans to come in large numbers on Sunday to cheer on the team. Their presence will be crucial in helping Simba secure the victory. We need to progress to the group stage,” he said.

In anticipation of the high-stakes match, Simba have already announced the ticketing arrangements for the fixture against Al Ahli Tripoli. 

Tickets are now available for purchase online, with the club utilizing its N-CARD system for sales. Prices for the tickets vary depending on the seating area, with regular stand priced at 3,000/-, Orange Stand tickets at 5,000/-, VIP C at 15,000/-, VIP B at 20,000/-, and VIP A at 40,000/-.

Simba have made extensive plans to ensure fans can attend the game in large numbers. The club is encouraging supporters to organize themselves into groups for the match day on Sunday as they push for a vital win that would secure their place in the next round of the CAF Confederation Cup.

Simba SC head coach Fadlu Davids has praised his players for their solid performance in Tripoli. The 0-0 draw away from home is seen as a good result, as it leaves Simba with the advantage of playing the decisive second leg on their home turf. 

Coach Davids expressed confidence in his team’s ability to capitalize on the result and deliver a winning performance in Dar es Salaam.

Simba’s preparation for the second leg will intensify in the coming days, with the technical team focusing on fine-tuning tactics and ensuring the players are in optimal condition. 

Coach Davids and his technical staff will be working closely with the squad to address any shortcomings from the first leg while building on the positives from their performance in Tripoli.

The team's recovery program, which began immediately after the match in Libya, will continue in Dar es Salaam, ensuring that the players are fresh and ready for the crucial return leg. The focus will also be on mental preparation, as Simba will need to handle the pressure of playing a must-win game in front of their home crowd.

Despite Simba’s favourable position, Al Ahli Tripoli remains a formidable opponent. The Libyan side has shown resilience throughout their campaign and will be eager to snatch an away goal, which could complicate Simba’s chances. The Tanzanian club must be cautious and avoid conceding, as even a single goal by Al Ahli could put Simba in a precarious position.

Nevertheless, Simba have a strong record at home, and with the backing of their loyal fans, they are confident of securing the necessary result. The team is determined to make it to the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup and continue their pursuit of continental success.

As the countdown to the decisive second leg continues, Simba are leaving no stone unturned in their preparations. The match against Al Ahli Tripoli is set to be one of the most important fixtures of their season, and the club is fully aware of what is at stake.

For the fans, the message is clear: come out in large numbers, support the team, and help them achieve their goal of advancing to the CAF Confederation Cup group stage. With a balanced squad, a determined coach, and the backing of their passionate supporters, Simba are ready to take on the challenge and continue their journey in Africa’s premier club competition.