Simba SC VS Stellenbosch FC – This Sunday promises a high-stakes clash as Fadlu Davids’ Simba SC host Steve Barker’s Stellenbosch FC in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup semi-finals. The match will be played at the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar — a neutral venue for the Tanzanian giants due to ongoing maintenance at their usual home, the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
For Stellenbosch, this tie marks the furthest the club has ever progressed in African continental competition, and they arrive with confidence after knocking out Egyptian heavyweights Zamalek in the quarter-finals — a statement result that sent shockwaves across the continent.
While many would instinctively label Stellenbosch as underdogs based on experience, the reality is less clear-cut. On paper, Barker’s squad holds enough quality to match, if not surpass, their East African opponents. What separates the two is heritage, not ability.
Simba’s stature in African football has been established for decades, with their last continental final appearance dating back to the 1993 CAF Cup. In contrast, Stellenbosch FC are relative newcomers to the African scene, having only been founded in 2016.
Adding a personal twist to this tactical battle is the reunion of the two head coaches. Barker and Davids, whose coaching paths began in earnest around the same time, will once again lock horns — this time with a place in the CAF Confederation Cup final at stake.
Match Details
📅 Date: Sunday, April 20
🕒 Kick-off: 16:00 CAT
🏟️ Venue: New Amaan Complex, Zanzibar, Tanzania
📺 TV: SuperSport
Home Away from Home
Both teams will be navigating unfamiliar surroundings during this semi-final. Not only has the first leg been moved to Zanzibar, but the return fixture on April 27 will also be played away from Stellenbosch’s home base. Owing to a stadium clash with Cape Town’s rugby outfit, the Stormers, the second leg will instead take place at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Stellenbosch Eye Away Goal Advantage
Despite playing away, Stellenbosch will know the importance of scoring in Zanzibar, especially with CAF’s away goals rule still in effect — unlike UEFA, which scrapped the rule. A draw or an away win would hand the Maroons a real shot at reaching their first continental final when the sides meet in South Africa for the second leg.
Team News
Stellenbosch have been handed a boost ahead of the trip, with captain and goalkeeper Sage Stephens expected to return after a brief injury layoff. However, attacking options remain limited, with Ashley Cupido doubtful due to a hamstring issue and Bradley Mojela sidelined long-term.
Expected Lineups
| Simba SC | Stellenbosch FC |
|---|---|
| GK: Moussa Camara | GK: Sage Stephens |
| LB: Mohamed Hussein Mohamed | LB: Fawaaz Basadien |
| CB: Abdulrazack Mohamed Hamza | CB: Thabo Moloisane |
| CB: Chamou Karaboue | CB: Ismaël Olivier Touré |
| RB: Shomari Kapombe | RB: Enyinnaya Godswill |
| CM: Fabrice Ngoma | LM: Genino Palace |
| CM: Yusuph Kagoma | CM: Sihle Nduli |
| LW: Kibu Denis | CM: Thato Khiba |
| AM: Jean Charles Ahoua | RM: Devin Titus |
| RW: Elie Mpanzu Kibisawala | ST: André de Jong |
| ST: Leonel Ateba | ST: Sanele Barns |
Stat Watch
- Stellenbosch have not conceded in their last three games in all competitions.
- This marks Stellenbosch’s first-ever CAF inter-club semi-final.
- Simba are back in the semi-finals for the first time since 1993.
Predictions & Betting Tips For Simba SC VS Stellenbosch FC
| Bet Type | Prediction | Odds* | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Time Result | Draw (1-1) | 3.20 | Stellenbosch’s solid defence & Simba’s home advantage may cancel each other out. |
| Both Teams To Score (BTTS) | Yes | 1.95 | Both sides have strong attacking threats and away goals are crucial. |
| Over/Under 2.5 Goals | Under 2.5 | 1.72 | First-leg tension likely to keep this a low-scoring affair. |
| Double Chance | Stellenbosch Win or Draw | 1.80 | Confidence from eliminating Zamalek gives them a real shot. |
| Anytime Goalscorer | André de Jong (Stellenbosch) | 3.50 | De Jong is key in Cupido’s absence and has a sharp eye for goal. |
*Odds are indicative and may vary depending on your bookmaker.
Related article: Stellenbosch FC Stun Zamalek to Reach Historic CAF Confederation Cup Semi-Final
