SIMBA SC have received a significant boost ahead of their crucial CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinal first-leg clash against Egyptian side Al Masry, as their first-choice goalkeeper, Moussa Camara, has fully recovered from injury.

The highly anticipated match is set to take place tomorrow at the Suez Stadium in Ismailia, Egypt.

Camara (pictured), who has been sidelined for nearly three weeks nursing an injury, rejoined full training with the rest of the squad on Sunday. 

His return is a major relief for the Tanzanian giants, who are keen to secure a favourable result away from home before the return leg at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam on April 9.

Simba are leaving no stone unturned in their preparations for the crucial encounter. The club is determined to either claim victory or secure a draw in Egypt to enhance their chances of progressing to the semifinals.

The upcoming fixture is of great significance for Simba, as they aim to break their quarterfinal curse in CAF inter-club competitions. The Msimbazi Street-based side has struggled to advance past the last eight stage for the past five seasons, and this campaign presents another golden opportunity to go further in the tournament.

Simba are Tanzania’s only remaining representatives in CAF competitions this season, and they are carrying the nation’s hopes of continental success. 

A strong performance in Egypt would set the stage for a decisive second leg at home, where they hope to capitalize on the support of their passionate fans.

Al Masry, who finished second in Group D behind Zamalek, have proven to be a formidable side in the competition. 

The Egyptian club secured their place in the knockout rounds after an impressive group stage campaign, where they won two home matches against Mozambique’s Black Bulls (3-1) and Nigeria’s Enyimba (2-0), drew three times, and lost only once to Zamalek (1-0).

Domestically, Al Masry are currently fourth in the Egyptian Premier League standings. Their most recent league match ended in a 1-1 draw against National Bank of Egypt. 

In their last five matches across all competitions, they have recorded three draws, one win, and one loss, indicating a mixed run of form heading into the quarterfinal tie against Simba.

Despite their inconsistent recent results, Al Masry remain a tough opponent, especially when playing at home. 

Simba will need to be at their best to contain their Egyptian rivals and avoid conceding crucial goals.

Simba’s head coach, Fadlu Davids, brings valuable experience in handling CAF inter-club knockout matches. 

The South African tactician was instrumental in guiding Orlando Pirates to the CAF Confederation Cup final during the 2021/22 season.

Notably, in that campaign, Davids masterminded Orlando Pirates’ quarterfinal victory over Simba, eliminating the Tanzanian side via a penalty shootout after a 1-1 aggregate draw. 

Now at the helm of Simba, he will be looking to use his tactical expertise to navigate his team past a tough Al Masry side.

Simba head into this crucial clash in excellent form, having won four of their last five matches across all competitions. 

Their attacking unit has been firing on all cylinders, while their defense has remained resolute, giving them confidence ahead of the high-stakes battle in Egypt.

Simba have set ambitious targets this season, with a strong desire to reach the CAF Confederation Cup final. 

A positive result in Egypt will put them in a strong position to advance to the semifinals, keeping their continental dream alive.

The first leg encounter at the Suez Stadium is expected to be a closely contested affair, with both teams eager to gain an advantage ahead of the return fixture. 

Simba will aim to frustrate their Egyptian hosts, while also looking for opportunities to exploit weaknesses in Al Masry’s defense.

A solid performance in Ismailia will give Simba the upper hand when they host Al Masry at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on April 9. 

With home advantage in the second leg, Simba will be banking on their passionate supporters to inspire them to victory and secure a historic semifinal berth.