CAF Confederation Cup: RS Berkane Claims 3rd Continental Title
Renaissance Sportive de Berkane (RSB) clinched the CAF Confederation Cup on Sunday in Zanzibar, after a 1-1 draw against Simba SC in the second leg of the final, following a 2-0 victory in the first leg.
The Moroccan club, already dominant in the home leg, confirmed its superiority over the two-legged tie to secure its third continental title, adding to its previous triumphs in 2020 and 2022.
Facing an aggressive Tanzanian side from the outset, RSB kept their composure and created several clear scoring opportunities.
After an early warning in the 9th minute—well handled by defender Lamine Camara—Simba opened the scoring in the 17th minute through Joshua Mutale, momentarily reviving hopes of a comeback.
Mentally strong, the RSB players stayed focused despite the local team’s attacking pressure. They came close to equalizing in the first half with several chances, including a header from Labhiri (14′), a half-volley by Lamlioui (38′), and a dangerous header by Tahif, which was cleared off the line by Simba’s goalkeeper just before halftime.
In the second half, Berkane expertly managed the game, especially after Simba’s midfielder Yusuph Kagoma was sent off in the 50th minute with a second yellow card.
Despite being reduced to 10 men, Simba nearly doubled their lead in the 73rd minute, but the goal was disallowed for offside.
RSB made smart substitutions to maintain balance and control the tempo. In added time, Soumaila Sidibe scored the equalizer (90+3′), sealing the title for the Moroccan side.
With this draw, RS Berkane further cements its status as a continental powerhouse, adding another chapter to its growing legacy in African football following its 2020 and 2022 victories.
