Photo Courtesy Simba SC Media.
Simba SC head coach Fadlu Davids has described the decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) that they play CS Constantine in their final group fixture of the Confederation Cup behind closed doors as unfair and disappointing.
On Tuesday, the Tanzanian Premier League giants announced that the African body had imposed sanctions following incidents of violence during their match against CS Sfaxien on December 15, 2024. The sanctions include a $40,000 fine and an order to play one match behind closed doors.
The statement from Simba read in part: “That CAF decision has banned our club for two matches; however, the punishment has been reduced to having one match played without fans, along with a fine of $40,000.
“We would like to inform the public that we are continuing to follow up on this decision. Due to this decision, the club has suspended the sale of tickets for our match against CS Constantine, and for fans who have already purchased tickets, we request that these tickets be used in the next match in the quarter-finals.”
Reacting to the CAF statement, the South Africa coach told Al Ahly TV : “CAF's decision is unfair because CS Sfaxien were those who started to attack us. This decision from CAF for the game to be played without fans is really disappointing.”
Before the ban, Davids had called on the club faithful to come out in large numbers and support the team during the fixture on Sunday, January 19.
“First of all, well done to the players and supporters of Simba,” Davids said as quoted by Daily News. “But I have one request to the Simba fans – we have 60,000 tickets available, and I urge everyone to come for that last match against Constantine.
“They know we need to win, but without their support, we cannot. Let’s fill up Benjamin Mkapa; let’s make it a huge spectacle to ensure we qualify at the top of the group.”
Simba are currently sitting second in Group A with 10 points, two less leaders Constantine. A win will therefore, guarantee Simba the top spot.
Simba and Constantine have already qualified for the knock out stages and at stake will be which teams leads the group.
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