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.
History made! 🏆#TotalEnergiesCAFCC pic.twitter.com/k0rSvlvN2o
— TotalEnergies CAFCL & CAFCC 🏆 (@CAFCLCC) May 25, 2025
