SIMBA SC captain and defender Mohammed Hussein, popularly known as Zimbwe Jr, has described head coach Fadlu Davids as the club’s greatest asset as they prepare to face South Africa’s Stellenbosch FC in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup semi-final.

The much-anticipated encounter is scheduled to take place on Sunday, April 20, at the New Amaan Complex Stadium in Zanzibar. The return leg will follow on April 27 in South Africa.

Speaking ahead of the crucial continental showdown, Zimbwe Jr expressed confidence in the team’s preparation, attributing much of their readiness to the technical insights provided by coach Davids, who has a deep understanding of South African football.

“Coach Fadlu is a major weapon for us,” said Zimbwe Jr. “He has taken us through tactical drills on how to handle their key players, how to approach the game at home, and how to remain compact away. His knowledge of South African football is a huge advantage for us.”

Zimbwe Jr further noted that while the team’s initial goal was to reach the semi-finals, their focus has now shifted to reaching the final. He stressed the importance of securing a convincing win at home to boost their chances of progressing.

“Our ambition now is to get to the final, and that starts with getting a solid win at home without conceding. We’ve prepared well and we believe in our ability. The goal is to finish the job in Zanzibar and head to South Africa with confidence,” the skipper emphasized.

In line with their preparation, Simba arrived early in Zanzibar on Tuesday, giving themselves ample time to finalize their training ahead of Sunday’s high-stakes clash. The team will have four full days to fine-tune their tactics and adapt to the match venue.

Meanwhile, Simba have officially announced ticket prices for the match. The New Amaan Complex, which has a capacity of 15,885 spectators, is expected to be filled to the brim as fans turn out in support of the Tanzanian giants.

According to the club’s announcement, tickets will be sold exclusively through the N-Card electronic system. Prices are set as follows: VIP A – Tsh. 40,000, VIP B – Tsh. 20,000, and regular stands (Mzunguko) – Tsh. 10,000. 

Tickets are already available at various designated sales points, including all regular N-Card ticket outlets in Dar es Salaam.

Simba are now aiming to reach their first-ever CAF Confederation Cup final. The club has been in strong form throughout the tournament and is seen as one of the favourites to lift the title this season. 

Their road to the semi-final has included memorable performances against top African sides, showcasing their growing pedigree on the continental stage.

Coach Davids, who joined Simba in 2024, has played a pivotal role in transforming the team’s tactical approach, bringing in a blend of discipline, pressing football, and strategic game management. 

His South African roots and experience in the Premier Soccer League (PSL) have also given Simba an edge in analyzing and planning for their semi-final opponents.

Stellenbosch FC, on the other hand, are enjoying a historic run in the Confederation Cup, having impressed many with their resilient performances and attacking flair. 

The South African side will be making their first trip to Zanzibar and are expected to provide a stern test for the Tanzanian giants.

Despite the challenge, Zimbwe Jr is optimistic: “We respect Stellenbosch, they are a good team, but we are fully focused. The coaching staff has prepared us well, and we are ready to fight for our badge, our fans, and our country.”

The semi-final marks a significant moment not only for Simba but for Tanzanian football as a whole, as the nation hopes to see its representative make history by reaching the final of a major CAF competition.

All eyes will now be on the New Amaan Complex this Sunday as Simba look to capitalize on home advantage and take a big step toward continental glory.