Simba skipper Che Malone Fondoh beaming with pride from TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup final qualification

Simba SC captain Che Malone Fondoh has spoken with pride and purpose after leading his side to the final of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup, calling the achievement a historic moment for both club and country.

The Tanzanian giants held Stellenbosch FC to a goalless draw in Durban on Sunday evening, doing just enough to secure progression to the continental showpiece thanks to a 1-0 first-leg win in Dar es Salaam.

It’s a moment that will be etched in the club’s folklore – and for their Cameroonian skipper, it’s about more than football.

“It’s history created, so we are very, very happy,” Che Malone said after the final whistle. “At least we have written a history in Simba. So we wish to play and win the finals because the job doesn't end here. It ends after the final.”

The towering centre-back was a rock in Simba’s defence across both legs of the semifinal, helping keep out a Stellenbosch side known for their intensity and unpredictability. With the result secured and the final on the horizon, Che Malone was quick to turn the page – stressing that the mission is far from complete.

“No matter who comes, we have to keep the same energy to make sure we win the finals,” he added, as Simba prepare to face Morocco’s RS Berkane – a seasoned force in the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup and current leaders of the Botola Pro 1.

“For our families and the whole of Tanzania. We are playing for Tanzania, for Simba,” he said. “So we are representing Tanzania here now. I am proud to say we lifted the flag of Tanzania up and we will do that until the end.”