Africa-Press – Tanzania. WITH the weight of history on their shoulders and the roar of the nation behind them, Simba Sports Club have embraced Zanzibar’s New Amaan Complex as the sacred battleground for their CAF Confederation Cup final second leg against Morocco’s RS Berkane.
Trailing behind 0-2 from the first leg, the Tanzanian giants are not only preparing physically but spiritually for what could be a historic night on Sunday.
In a spirited press conference held yesterday in Dar es Salaam, Simba’s charismatic spokesperson, Ahmed Ally, unveiled the club’s unique preparations, emphasising a spiritual pilgrimage to honour Zanzibar’s Founding Father and Simba’s symbolic forebear, the late Abeid Amani Karume.
“It holds great meaning to offer prayers at the grave of the late Abeid Amani Karume,” said Ally. “He wasn’t just a national hero for Zanzibar—he was part of Simba’s history. He blessed the name ‘Simba SC’ during our transformation from Sunderland. His legacy lives in our badge.”
Ally delivered his remarks with signature flair—playfully teasing arch-rivals Young African SC, while crediting Karume for bestowing the club with the now-iconic name ‘Simba’.
“For our Gen Z Simba fans who may not know—yes, Karume named us ‘Simba’. Others, well… ended up being called frogs,” he joked, sparking laughter across the room.
Simba’s pilgrimage is steeped in African tradition, where paying respect to ancestors is often seen as invoking spiritual guidance and protection. Ally emphasised that this gesture is not just symbolic—it’s a strategic move to align with both divine will and cultural heritage.
“We’re saying ‘This is your land. Bless us as we aim to lift the African crown,’” Ally declared. “The visit is scheduled for Friday, May 23, followed by acts of charity, including donations to local orphanages. This reflects Simba’s enduring values: Faith, unity and giving back.”
Ahead of Sunday’s high-voltage final, a wave of red will sweep across Zanzibar. A grand rally will begin tomorrow, featuring motorbike processions, traditional dance troupes and a convoy of publicity trucks—all designed to fire up fan excitement.
“Sunday is Red Day and Wear your official Simba jersey. If you don’t have one—any red shirt will do. But show up red and proud,” Ally proclaimed.
He urged supporters to secure their seats quickly, warning of limited capacity at Amaan Stadium, “Only 15,000 tickets which are nowhere near enough for a continental final. Get yours early!”
Ally ended on a powerful note, boldly declaring that Simba has outgrown the days of waiting decades for continental glory, saying: “The days of waiting until 2053 for another final are over. Just like we dominated the quarterfinals for seven straight years, finals are now our standard. This is Simba’s new era.”
Simba SC will need to overturn a 2-0 deficit after conceding two early goals to Mamadou Camara (8′) and Oussama Lamlioui (14′) in the first leg held at the Berkane Municipal Stadium on May 17.
Under the leadership of Coach Fadlu Davids, Simba played their group stage and quarter-final matches at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, winning all four. However, they shifted to Amaan Stadium in the semi-final first leg against Stellenbosch and are set to host RS Berkane there as well hoping the change of venue, coupled with spiritual support and fan energy, will turn the tide.
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