AS Simba Head Coach Acknowledges Tough Task Against Kaizer Chiefs

AS Simba head coach Daoula Lupembe has admitted that his team faces a significant challenge in the CAF Confederation Cup return leg against Kaizer Chiefs. The first-leg encounter in Congo ended in a goalless draw, leaving both sides with everything to play for when they meet at Dobsonville Stadium.

Simba had aimed to take an advantage into South Africa, especially following the success of fellow Congolese club FC Saint-Éloi Lupopo, who defeated Orlando Pirates 3-0 in the CAF Champions League. Lupembe reflected on the first leg, calling it a missed opportunity.

“Before going to the rematch that we need to win, it is like what we said here that we needed to win at our place, but we didn’t win,” Lupembe told Pan-Africa Football. “We have to go and confirm it somewhere. It is going to take us to be 100 per cent physically, well technically and tactically, especially mentally well, because the difference is on the mental level.”

The Simba coach emphasized that the upcoming clash will demand full focus and preparation from his squad. “The right mentality. We will have a very difficult game to play. It will be a match of an African level. Top level,” he added.

Both teams will enter the Dobsonville encounter with high stakes. Chiefs will aim to capitalize on home advantage, while Simba will seek to overturn the tie and prove themselves against one of South Africa’s top clubs. Lupembe’s comments underline the mental and physical challenge his team must meet to succeed.