IN preparation for their CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final against Al Masry, Simba SC coach Fadlu Davids has emphasized that his team has been closely monitoring their opponents.

The Msimbazi Reds will face the Egyptian side in the first leg of the quarter-final clash at the New Suez Stadium tomorrow before returning home to host the second leg on Wednesday, April 9, at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

The Tanzanian giants arrived in Cairo just a day after securing a 2-1 victory against Bigman FC in the Federation Cup, advancing to the next stage of the domestic knockout competition.

“The focus is already there (on Al Masry), especially for the technical team. They are studying Al Masry’s matches, analyzing their strengths and weaknesses, and developing the best game plan and strategy against them,” said Davids.

He highlighted the importance of securing an away goal, stating: "An away goal is crucial in this kind of encounter. It can be a game-changer for the second leg."

Davids also emphasized the significance of the return leg in Dar es Salaam, saying: "The match at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium will be decisive, regardless of our performance in Egypt."

Analyzing Al Masry’s tactical approach, he noted: "They present the toughest challenge yet. Their tactical approach, featuring a three-man defense and aggressive high pressing, requires careful planning. We have thoroughly analyzed their matches and are ready for the challenge."

Simba anticipate a significantly tougher challenge compared to their previous victory over Al Ahly Tripoli in the qualification rounds (3-1 aggregate) and their dominant performances in the group stages.

Simba topped Group A in the CAF Confederation Cup with 13 points, securing four wins, one draw, and one loss. They finished ahead of CS Constantine (12 points), Bravos Do Maquis (7 points), and CS Sfaxien (3 points).

The club has reached the quarter-finals of the CAF Champions League on three occasions - in 2020/21, 2022/23, and 2023/24 - and made it to the same stage in the CAF Confederation Cup during the 2021/22 season. However, they have consistently fallen short at this stage.

In the 2020/21 CAF Champions League, Simba were eliminated by South Africa’s Kaizer Chiefs with an aggregate score of 4-3. 

In the 2021/22 CAF Confederation Cup, they faced Orlando Pirates and were knocked out in a penalty shootout after the two-legged tie ended in a 1-1 draw.

This quarter-final clash with Al Masry holds historical significance for Simba, as they were eliminated by the same opponent in the 2018 CAF Confederation Cup first round on away goals after a 2-2 aggregate score.

This season presents a new opportunity for Simba to make history by advancing to the CAF Confederation Cup semi-finals for the first time, having previously been halted at the quarter-final stage.

Al Masry currently sit fourth in the Egyptian Premier League with 31 points, secured through eight wins, seven draws, and three losses. 

They have scored 19 goals and conceded 11, resulting in a goal difference of +8. 

In the CAF Confederation Cup group stage, Al Masry accumulated nine points from two wins, three losses, and one draw.

With both teams eager to progress, Simba will need to deliver a strong performance in Egypt before capitalizing on their home advantage in the second leg.