CAFCC: Davids knowledge of South African football boost for Simba SC – Hussein

Mohammed Hussein: Photo Credit - Simba SC Tanzania.

Simba SC defender Mohammed Hussein has discussed why the Tanzanian giants are confident heading into their semi-final clash of CAF Confederation Cup against South Africa’s Stellenbosch FC.

The Msimbazi Reds were drawn to face the South African club following their success to eliminate Egyptian side Al Masry. Simba finally broke their quarter-final jinx after a dramatic 4-1 penalty shootout victory over Al Masry at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

Ahead of the first leg clash at the New Amaan Complex Stadium in Zanzibar on Sunday, Hussein, who is the captain of Msimbazi Reds, has revealed their preparations pointing out the presence of coach Fadlu Davids, who hails from South Africa, as a big advantage.

“Coach Fadlu (Davids) is a major weapon for us,” said Hussein as quoted by the Guardian. “He has taken us through tactical drills on how to handle their key players, how to approach the game at home, and how to remain compact away. His knowledge of South African football is a huge advantage for us.

“Our ambition now is to get to the final, and that starts with getting a solid win at home without conceding. We’ve prepared well and we believe in our ability. The goal is to finish the job in Zanzibar and head to South Africa with confidence.”

Stellenbosch reached the next stage after tossing out defending champions Zamalek. After securing a 0-0 draw in the first leg at home, the Stellies went to Egypt and snatched a 1-0 win to qualify 1-0 on aggregate.

This will mark the first-ever meeting between Simba and Stellenbosch and the return leg is scheduled for April 27 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa.