AS the anticipation for the CAF Confederation Cup Final first leg reaches fever pitch, all eyes are turning to the Berkane Municipal Stadium. This Saturday, Moroccan giants RS Berkane will host Tanzanian powerhouse Simba SC in a contest brimming with continental ambition.

Finals often hinge on collective brilliance or individual genius, but individual duels can shape the outcome. A thrilling clash awaits on the flank: Simba’s dynamic winger Elie Mpanzu versus RS Berkane’s resolute right-back Haytam Manaout. 

This matchup of contrasting styles and fierce determination could define the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup Final.

The victor of this personal skirmish could provide their team with a decisive edge, unlocking opportunities and stifling threats in equal measure.

Elie Mpanzu: Simba’s Creative Spark

Mpanzu, Simba’s 23-year-old Congolese sensation, has been a vital cog in the club's impressive march to the final. Operating primarily as a right-winger, Mpanzu is a player who embodies attacking flair.

Standing at 1.65m, his low center of gravity and dazzling dribbling skills, earning him the nickname "Mfalme wa Dribbling" (King of Dribbling) among adoring fans, make him a nightmare for opposition defenders. His ability to change pace instantly, cut inside onto his preferred right foot, or take the byline route keeps defenders constantly guessing.

Throughout the 2024/2025 CAF Confederation Cup campaign, Mpanzu has consistently showcased his importance. In his seven appearances leading up to the final, he has not only been a constant creative outlet but has also directly contributed with one crucial goal and one assist. 

These statistics, while modest, only tell a fraction of the story. His true value lies in his capacity to disrupt defensive structures, draw multiple defenders towards him thereby creating space for teammates, and deliver incisive passes into the penalty area.

Simba will undoubtedly look to channel their attacks through Mpanzu, hoping his trickery and pace can unsettle the Berkane defence, particularly in one-on-one situations against Manaout. 

His performances in the semi-finals were a testament to his big-game temperament, and Simba will be banking on him to replicate that form on the grandest stage.

Haytam Manaout: Berkane’s Bastion on the Right Flank

Tasked with the formidable challenge of containing Mpanzu will be RS Berkane’s 24-year-old Moroccan right-back, Haytam Manaout. At 1.79m, Manaout possesses a more imposing physical presence compared to his direct opponent.

A product of the famed Mohammed VI Football Academy, Manaout has established himself as a reliable and tenacious defender for the Oranges. 

His journey with RS Berkane in this season's Confederation Cup has seen him become an almost permanent fixture in the starting lineup.

 Manaout's statistics in the competition highlight his all-around contribution. With nine appearances under his belt, he has been instrumental in Berkane’s defensive solidity. 

While his primary role is to nullify threats down his flank, he has also demonstrated his capability in the attacking third, registering two crucial assists and even finding the back of the net with one goal during the campaign.

 This attacking dimension to his game means Mpanzu will not only have to worry about beating his man but also about tracking Manaout’s potential forward surges, adding another layer to their duel.

Manaout’s discipline, positional awareness, and tackling prowess will be severely tested by Mpanzu’s unpredictability. Playing in front of a passionate home crowd in the first leg will surely galvanize Manaout, who will be determined to assert his dominance early on.

Tactical Dynamics of the Duel

The battle between Mpanzu and Manaout is expected to be a captivating tactical chess match. Mpanzu will likely try to isolate Manaout, using his quick feet and body feints to create separation. 

His tendency to drift infield could also pose questions for Berkane’s wider defensive structure, potentially pulling Manaout out of position or forcing a central midfielder to cover.

Simba’s strategy might involve quick switches of play to find Mpanzu in space, allowing him to run directly at his marker. Conversely, Manaout will aim to be proactive in his defending. He cannot afford to give Mpanzu too much space to build momentum.

Early challenges, intelligent anticipation of Mpanzu’s movements, and effective use of his physicality will be key. Support from his nearest centre-back and right-sided midfielder will also be crucial in doubling up on Mpanzu when necessary, preventing the winger from dictating terms.

Manaout’s ability to read the game, intercept passes aimed at Mpanzu, and launch quick counter-attacks by utilizing his own passing range and forward runs could turn defence into a potent attacking weapon for RS Berkane.

The outcome of this flank war will have significant ramifications. If Mpanzu consistently gets the better of Manaout, Simba will find a rich attacking vein down the right, potentially leading to goal-scoring opportunities or penalties.

If Manaout successfully shackles Mpanzu, a primary attacking outlet for Simba will be neutralized, putting more pressure on other areas of their attack and allowing Berkane to build from a more secure defensive platform.

With RS Berkane playing at home, they will be keen to seize the initiative and secure an advantage to take to Dar es Salaam for the second leg. This could mean Manaout might be encouraged to push forward more frequently, testing Mpanzu’s defensive discipline.

However, this also carries the risk of leaving space behind for Mpanzu to exploit on the counter-attack, an area where his pace can be devastating.

The psychological aspect will also be paramount. An early "win" in the duel, a successful take-on by Mpanzu or a crunching, fair tackle by Manaout, could set the tone for their individual contest throughout the 90 minutes.

The referee’s interpretation of their challenges will also be under scrutiny, as both players are known for their commitment.

While the CAF Confederation Cup Final will be decided by eleven players on each side, the individual confrontation between Mpanzu and Manaout promises to be a defining subplot.

Mpanzu’s flair and attacking intent will test Manaout’s defensive nous, while Manaout’s discipline and occasional attacking contributions could frustrate Simba’s winger. 

With both players in fine form this battle could determine which team takes the advantage into the second leg.