CAF Champions League: Simba will play El Merrikh Without Supporters

Tanzania Premier League champions Simba SC have revealed their African Champions League Group A match against El Merrikh will be staged behind closed doors.

The Msimbazi Reds will host the Red Castle in their group match-day four encounter at an empty Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on Tuesday  after Confederation of African Football (CAF) refused entry for fans.

Simba SC’s Communication Officer Haji Manara confirmed that CAF has barred spectators for their match against the Sudanese giants owing to strict measures put in place by the continental football governing body to curb the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“As we continue preparations for the game against Al Merrikh, we have received a communication from CAF that fans will not be allowed into the stadium,” said Manara in a presser.

“Only the officials and a few individuals will be allowed into the stadium for the game. All we can ask from our supporters is to pray for us from home and we will not disappoint.

“This will be a silent battle from our players just the way a lion does when it is on a hunting mission.

“It does not matter whether there will be fans or not because the players know how to handle the situation owing to their experience. We will give our best and I am hopeful we will get a positive outcome.”

Meanwhile, Simba opponents left Khartoum for Tanzania Saturday morning and are expected to conduct their first training at Uhuru Stadium on this evening.

Simba were held to a goalless draw by El Merrikh in their third match that was played at Al-Hilal Stadium, Omdurman last Saturday.