Tanzanian side Simba SC have made a good start in Group A of the 2024/2025 TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup.

Coach Fadlu Davids’ side picked a narrow 1-0 win against the Angolan side Bravos do Maquis in a match played at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday.

The hosts started on a high with several attacks, as the visitors tried to adapt and adjust to the game.

It was Jean Charles Ahoua who put Simba SC ahead when he converted a penalty after 27 minutes after Edmilson Paulo Generoso had handled the ball in the box.

The Ivorian made no mistake from the spot placing the ball past the Bravos do Maquis goalkeeper.

Simba SC continued to push forward with Ugandan international Steven Mukwala having many attempts at goal.

After recess the visitors were awarded a penalty taken by Emmanuel Edmond which the Simba SC goalkeeper Moussa Camara saved after 48 minutes.

Bravos do Maquis again had Jó Paciência and Macaiabo come close to scoring, but his effort narrowly missed the target.

Simba’s Joshua Mutale also hit the post in the 66th minute, coming agonizingly close to doubling the lead.

The Angolan team continued to push forward in search of an equalizer, but the defending line of experienced Shomari Kapombe and Mohamed Hussein stood firm.

“We are happy that we have picked maximum points in this tough first match of the group stage. I want to thank the fans for all the support,” said Simba SC’s coach after the match.

In the second Group A match played later visiting CS Constantine (Algeria) defeated Tunisia’s Sfaxien 1-0.