RS Berkane Clinch Third CAF Confederation Cup Title After Gritty Draw Against Simba SC

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RS Berkane have been crowned CAF Confederation Cup 2024/25 champions, securing the title on aggregate after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Simba SC in a tense second-leg clash in Zanzibar.

The Moroccan side, who came into the match with a first-leg advantage, showed composure and resilience under intense pressure at a packed stadium in Dar es Salaam, claiming their third TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup title after previous victories in 2020 and 2022.

Simba SC ignited early hopes of a comeback when Joshua Mutale calmly slotted home in the 17th minute following a clever assist from Elie Mpanzu, giving the Tanzanian hosts a 1-0 lead.

Roared on by a vibrant home crowd, Simba pressed relentlessly, with Steven Mukwala and Shomari Kapombe threatening the Berkane goal. However, goalkeeper Munir Mohamedi and his defense held firm under pressure.

A turning point came in the 73rd minute when VAR ruled out a goal by Mukwala for offside, a heartbreaking moment that preserved RS Berkane’s aggregate lead.

Simba’s hopes were further dented when Yusuph Kagoma received a second yellow card and was sent off in the 50th minute, putting his team at a numerical disadvantage.

As Simba chased a decisive second goal, Soumaila Sidibe emerged as the match hero. The midfielder struck a brilliant equaliser with a sharp right-footed finish from a tight angle, beating Moussa Camara and quieting the home fans.

The draw was enough for RS Berkane to clinch the trophy, completing a 2024/25 campaign that now sees them lift their third CAF Confederation Cup title — a feat that solidifies their place among the continent’s elite clubs.

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