Simba SC of Tanzania battled back from an early deficit to triumph 3-1 against Libyan side Al Ahli Tripoli, securing their place in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage.
The victory was marked by a display of resilience and determination, with goals from Kibu Dennis, Leonel Ateba, and Edwin Balua lighting up the stadium.
The match started on a sour note for Simba when Angolan striker Paciência Mabululu put Al Ahli Tripoli ahead in the 17th minute.
Capitalising on a miscommunication in Simba’s defence, Mabululu intercepted a back pass intended for the goalkeeper, sending shockwaves through the home crowd.
However, this setback ignited a fire in the Simba players. The team ramped up their pressing game, and just three minutes later, Joshua Mutale nearly equalized with a powerful strike that was expertly blocked by Tripoli’s solid defence.
Simba’s relentless pursuit paid off in the 36th minute when Kibu Dennis levelled the score. Following a brilliant setup from Jean Ahoua, Dennis executed a stunning bicycle kick that sent the ball crashing into the net, igniting a wave of euphoria among the fans.
Just before halftime, Simba struck again. Leonel Ateba received another pinpoint assist from Ahoua and deftly chipped the ball over the Tripoli goalkeeper, leaving defenders bewildered as it nestled in the back of the net.
The stadium erupted in cheers, with fans dreaming of seeing Simba in the coveted group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup.The second half saw Simba continue to dominate, leaving Tripoli visibly frustrated.
Simba appeared poised to extend their lead when Ateba scored a third goal, only for the linesman to controversially rule it offside—prompting heated debates among players and fans about whether it was Ahoua or Ateba in the wrong.
As Simba contemplated the denied goal, Tripoli attempted to shift momentum with a thunderous shot from Mabululu, but goalkeeper Moussa Camara was equal to the task, making a stunning save that kept Simba’s hopes alive.
In a dramatic turn of events, Edwin Balua sealed Tripoli’s fate with a powerful strike that left the Libyan side reeling, sinking them out of the CAF Confederation Cup. The stadium erupted in celebration as Simba fans rejoiced in their team’s achievement.