Dar es Salaam. Simba SC secured their spot in the next phase of the CAF Champions League qualification process this evening October 26, 2025 after a cautious goalless draw against Eswatini’s Nsingizini Hotspurs at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium.
The stalemate in Dar es Salaam saw the Tanzanian giants progress with a comfortable 3-0 aggregate victory, thanks to their commanding performance in the first leg of this Qualification Round 2 tie.
Conservative Approach Pays Off
Holding a three-goal cushion, Simba adopted a pragmatic, almost conservative, approach.
Their primary goal was clearly to manage the tie, protect their substantial lead, and avoid any disastrous slips that could invite the visitors back into the contest.
From the first whistle, Simba dominated possession and territory, pushing the Hotspurs deep into their own half.
However, despite sustained pressure and territorial advantage, the decisive goal eluded the home side.
Nsingizini, travelling with the faint hope of overturning the deficit, set up to be defensively robust.
They rarely committed men forward, essentially sacrificing attacking ambition to frustrate the hosts.
Their disciplined backline held firm throughout, absorbing wave after wave of Simba’s attacks and limiting the Tanzanian side to half-chances and shots from distance.
Missed Opportunities Highlight Concerns
While the final outcome was never truly in doubt, Simba’s inability to convert their dominance into a home goal will be a point of reflection for the coaching staff.
The attacking play lacked the necessary precision and cutting edge; crosses failed to connect, and final passes often went astray, allowing the Eswatini side to maintain their clean sheet.
For Nsingizini Hotspurs, the match exposed the clear gulf in continental experience.
While their defensive effort was commendable, they failed to create a single meaningful chance over the two legs, confirming that the tie was effectively settled in the first encounter.
The routine progression ensures Simba advances to the next, more challenging stage of qualification.
However, the Msimbazi faithful will demand a sharper performance against tougher opposition. The team must sharpen their attacking output if they are to compete effectively for a place in the group stages.
Nsingizini, meanwhile, depart the continent with pride in their defensive display but with clear lessons about the required standards at this level as they return to focus on their domestic league commitments.
