Ateba on target as Simba clinch CAF Confed. Cup slot
By Esther E. Otto
In a stunning display of skill and determination, Fadlu Davids’ inspired Simba SC team secured a remarkable come-from-behind 3-1 victory over Al Ahli Tripoli, earning a well-deserved spot in the 2024/25 CAF Confederation Cup group stages. The electrifying match unfolded at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam on a memorable Sunday afternoon.
The home crowd was left in disbelief as Agostinho Mabululu seized an early opportunity, capitalizing on a loose ball to effortlessly slot it into an unguarded net just 17 minutes into the game.
Simba’s spirits soared as Kibu Denis delivered a moment of sheer brilliance in the 35th minute, executing a magical overhead kick to level the score at 1-1. Tripoli’s defense faltered, unable to clear the danger posed by the determined Simba players.
As halftime approached, Leonel Ateba seized the moment, taking advantage of a defensive error to coolly slot the ball past the goalkeeper, propelling Simba into a 2-1 lead and igniting euphoric celebrations among the home supporters.
The tide of the game continued to favor Simba, but Ateba missed a golden opportunity to secure a brace in the 64th minute, sending his shot soaring over the crossbar with only the goalkeeper to beat.
In a heart-stopping moment, Mabululu’s late attempt to double his tally in the 90th minute was spectacularly denied by an acrobatic save from Moussa Camara, keeping Tripoli’s hopes alive momentarily.
The drama didn’t end there. In added time, Jean Charles Ahoua hammered in a decisive goal, extending Simba’s lead to 3-1 and sealing Tripoli’s fate as Simba triumphed and advanced to the next stage of the competition.
