SIMBA SC’s Media and Communication Manager Ahmed Ally has reaffirmed the team’s ambition to progress beyond the quarterfinals of the CAF Confederation Cup as they prepare to face Egypt’s Al Masry.

The Msimbazi Reds are set for a two-legged quarterfinal tie, with the first leg scheduled for April 2 at New Suez Stadium in Egypt, followed by the return leg at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on April 9.

"The squad will depart on the morning of March 28, flying to Egypt via Egypt Air. Our players who were on international duty with Taifa Stars for the World Cup qualifiers will join the team directly in Egypt," Ally stated.

He acknowledged the challenge ahead, emphasizing the strength of Egyptian teams in continental competitions.

"Egypt has four teams in the quarterfinals of African club tournaments, which speaks volumes about their quality. We respect Al Masry, but our objective is clear - we are determined to reach the semifinals," he added.

Simba enter this stage of the competition in strong form, having topped Group A with 13 points from four wins, one draw, and one loss. 

They finished ahead of Algeria’s CS Constantine (12 points), Angola’s Bravos do Maquis (7 points), and Tunisia’s CS Sfaxien (3 points).

Before their trip to Egypt, Simba were scheduled to face Bigman FC in the Federation Cup Round of 16 later yesterday.

This quarterfinal tie is particularly significant for Simba, as Al Masry eliminated them from the 2018 CAF Confederation Cup first round on away goals after a 2-2 aggregate draw. 

This season presents an opportunity for the Tanzanian giants to rewrite history by securing a first-ever semifinal berth in the competition.

Al Masry currently sit fourth in the Egyptian Premier League with 31 points from 14 matches (eight wins, three draws, three losses). They have netted 19 goals while conceding 11, maintaining a +8 goal difference.

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

Simba will be aiming to capitalize on their solid performances in the group stage and take a crucial step toward continental glory.