Wilken: Simba players highly motivated for CAF final showdown

By Nassir Nchimbi , The Guardian
Published at 05:04 AM May 24 2025
Wilken: Simba players highly motivated for CAF final showdown
Photo: Guardian Correspondent
Wilken: Simba players highly motivated for CAF final showdown

AS Simba SC prepare for their crucial CAF Confederation Cup second-leg final against Morocco’s RS Berkane, assistant coach Darian Wilken has assured fans that the players are highly motivated and ready for the challenge.

The match is set to take place tomorrow at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar. The Tanzanian giants are looking to overturn a 2-0 deficit from the first leg and make history by becoming the first club from the country to lift a major continental title. 

This marks the second time in the knockout phase that Simba have found themselves in such a position. In the quarterfinals against Al Masry SC, Simba lost the first leg 2-0 but bounced back with a 2-0 win in the return leg, before triumphing 4-1 in a penalty shootout.

To lift the CAF Confederation Cup trophy outright, Simba will need to win by at least three goals. A 2-0 win would force a penalty shootout, while a 3-1 result would hand RS Berkane the title via the away goals rule.

All Simba players have arrived in Zanzibar and are reportedly fit and focused under the guidance of head coach Fadlu Davids. Their opponents, RS Berkane, also landed in Zanzibar on Thursday and are set to hold final preparations before tomorrow’s decisive clash.

Speaking ahead of the game, assistant coach Wilken (pictured) emphasized the team’s readiness and high morale:
 “We’ve been training with great care, and the players are showing excellent readiness for this match. We have won at Amaan before. While this is a different game, we remain confident and hopeful of turning things around,” said Wilken.

“Our belief in winning the CAF Confederation Cup is very strong. We urge our fans to come out in large numbers - this is our moment, and their support will be crucial to achieving this victory.”

Simba, based at Msimbazi Street, have enjoyed an impressive campaign in the competition, particularly on home soil. They secured key results against Egypt’s Al Masry and Algeria’s CS Constantine at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, which has become their fortress during this continental run.

Anticipation is building ahead of what promises to be a thrilling final. The atmosphere at the New Amaan Complex is expected to be electric, with passionate home support pushing Simba toward a historic achievement. 

Meanwhile, RS Berkane will look to manage their advantage and seal the title on foreign soil. With national pride, continental glory, and history on the line, tomorrow’s final is set to deliver high drama, fierce competition, and unforgettable moments in African football.