CAFCC: Simba takes narrow lead to South Africa after first leg victory

Jean Charles Ahoua's goal at the end of the first half gave Dar es Salaam giants Simba SC the edge as the Reds defeated South Africa's Stellenbosch FC 1-0 in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup semifinal clash.

Ahoua curled in a dangerous free kick from the left wing that left Stellies goalkeeper Oscarine Masuluke frozen as the ball snuck inside the far post.

The match winner completed a dominant first half from the hosts in Zanzibar, who will perhaps feel they should have added another goal or two with two excellent missed opportunities in second half stoppage time. Masuluke came up with a big save to keep Elie Mpanzu from doubling Simba's lead before Ahoua inexplicably put his finish wide after dribbling around Masuluke a couple minutes later.

Stellenbosch continued to use the strategy seen in their quarterfinal upset against Egypt's Zamalek, utilizing a defensive posture and attempting to make the most of set pieces including long throw-ins. The visitors were more successful in the second half and were able to limit opportunities for Simba until the very end where the Tanzanian club wasted a couple of excellent chances that could come back to haunt them.

Simba's one-goal advantage is not a bad result for Stellies who will host the Reds in Durban for the second leg next week. Considering Simba's history of being a much less fearsome team away from home, the Betway Premiership side will fancy their chances to overturn the deficit.

The second leg will be next Sunday at the Moses Mabhida Stadium (14:00 GMT) where plenty of suspense remains.