The much-anticipated RS Berkane vs Simba SC showdown in the CAF Confederation Cup final lived up to expectations as Moroccan club RS Berkane claimed a crucial 2-0 victory in the first leg at Berkane Municipal Stadium on Saturday.

The match marked the first part of the two-legged Simba SC CAF final journey, where the Tanzanian giants faced a strong and determined RS Berkane side. The win puts RS Berkane on the brink of securing their third continental title.

Strong Start for RS Berkane

RS Berkane dominated from the outset. In the 8th minute, Mamadou Camara opened the scoring with a powerful header from a Hamza El Moussaoui corner. Just six minutes later, Oussama Lamlaoui added a second goal, converting a sharp pass from Imad Riahi to make it RS Berkane 2-0 Simba SC early in the game.

Simba SC’s Missed Opportunities

Despite the early setback, Simba SC created chances to get back into the match. Leonel Ateba and Elie Mpanzu came close to scoring, but RS Berkane’s defense and goalkeeper Hamza Hamiani were solid throughout. Simba’s struggle deepened when midfielder Abdulrazack Hamza exited the match due to injury.

VAR Drama & Late Action

In the second half, RS Berkane had a third goal ruled out by VAR in the 60th minute for offside. Still, they continued to threaten through counterattacks, with Issoufou Dayo and Mateus Santos nearly adding to the scoreline. Simba SC held on, avoiding further damage ahead of the return leg.

Second Leg All to Play For

The second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup final is set for Sunday, 25 May at 15:00 GMT, where Simba SC will need to overturn the deficit to win their first continental trophy. Meanwhile, RS Berkane are one step closer to lifting their continental title for the third time.