Simba SC Faces Stellenbosch at Zanzibar’s Upgraded New Amaan Complex
Zanzibar is about to feel the buzz of continental football in a way it rarely does. The renovated New Amaan Complex is set to host Simba SC’s CAF Confederation Cup semi-final first leg against Stellenbosch FC on April 20, 2025. The announcement came after weeks of speculation, logistical hurdles, and careful inspection, but it’s now official: the eyes of African football are turning to this island stadium.
Traditionally, matches of this stature are played on Tanzania’s mainland. But this time, Simba teamed up with the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) and the Zanzibar Football Federation (ZFF) to make history. Zanzibar’s government pushed for the stadium’s upgrades, bringing it in line with CAF Confederation Cup requirements—think better flood lighting, VIP and media facilities, and improved spectator stands. Inspectors signed off on the improvements after a walkthrough led by Simba’s Abbas Ally, confirming the stadium was up to scratch.
The logistical challenge didn’t stop at stadium upgrades. Travel, accommodation, security, and fan management all had to be sorted. The organizing committee finalized every detail, from team hotels to ticketing plans. You can bet authorities will be keeping a close eye on crowd control—the stadium’s facelift comes with the expectation of a packed house and electric energy from locals hungry for a taste of top-tier football.
The Stakes Get Higher for Simba SC and Stellenbosch FC
This match isn’t your everyday league fixture. For Simba SC, hosting the first leg at Amaan Complex means everything. A strong result on home soil could set up a manageable task when they head to South Africa’s Moses Mabhida Stadium for the second leg on April 27. With the winner destined for the final to meet either RS Berkane or CS Constantine, the pressure is on to deliver not just for club pride, but for their fans and Tanzania’s football reputation.
Stellenbosch FC aren’t leaving anything to chance either. They got formal notice of the venue change early enough to adjust their preparations. Their squad will arrive in Zanzibar two days before kick-off—a tactical move aimed at adapting to the island climate and unfamiliar surroundings. The club’s intention is clear: prevent Simba from gaining any home advantage and punch their own ticket to the final.
For Zanzibari fans, the match is a dream come true. It’s not every season that a CAF semi-final lands in their backyard. Locals who usually watch international football on TV now get to experience the sights, sounds, and adrenaline of continental action up close. Merchants, hotels, and food vendors around the stadium expect a bonanza, as thousands pour in for this rare spectacle. Even families with no previous ties to Simba SC or South African football are making plans for April 20.
It’s more than just a match for Zanzibar. It’s a statement that the island, once overlooked in African football, can host and handle big league action. Whether Simba takes an advantage to Durban or Stellenbosch upsets the home crowd, Amaan Complex will be buzzing, and for one night at least, Zanzibar will be right at the center of African football.
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