Chaabani: Berkane determined to return with CAF Confederation Cup trophy

RS Berkane head coach Moine Chaabani says his side is fully focused and prepared for Sunday’s second leg of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup final against Tanzania’s Simba SC, as they seek to secure a third continental title.

The Moroccan club takes a 2-0 lead into the return leg at Amaan Stadium in Zanzibar following an early double from Mamadou Camara and Oussama Lamlaoui in the first leg in Berkane.

Speaking ahead of the crucial clash, Chaabani emphasized that his players have left nothing to chance.

“We are focused on the match, and we must adapt to all circumstances, no matter how difficult,” he said during the pre-match press conference.

“We came here to play a 90-minute match, and there is no room for distraction.”

The Tunisian tactician, who led the team to last year’s final only to suffer defeat against Zamalek, underlined the hunger within the squad to go one step further this time.

“We have worked hard since that disappointment, and today we are even more determined to win the title and bring the cup back to Morocco.”

RS Berkane will be boosted by the availability of key players Haitham Manout and Paul Valery, although final decisions on their involvement will be made after the last training session.

“All players are present. The decision on their participation will depend on their readiness,” he added.

Chaabani also pointed to his side’s growing experience in navigating difficult African environments, saying they are mentally conditioned for the high-stakes occasion.

“We have a strong immune system to handle these conditions, and we will manage our physical effort according to the match's progress,” he said.

“We hope to rise to the occasion and succeed in pleasing the Berkane fans, who always support us, to win the title.”

The return leg kicks off at 13:00 GMT on Sunday. A draw or even a narrow defeat by a one-goal margin will be enough for Berkane to lift the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup trophy.