Staff Reporter.
Simba SC advanced to the CAF Confederation Cup final with a 1-0 win aggregate win over Stellenbosch FC at Moses Mabhida stadium.
Simba were awarded an 11th-minute penalty after Kibu Denis went down in the box. VAR however overturned the decision.
Andre de Jong’s glancing header in the 40th minute sailed just over the bar as both sides headed into the halftime break still locked at 0-0 with the Reds of Msimbazi still having the advantage.
Ten minutes into the second half, Stellies were awarded a penalty for what the referee deemed a handful, but again overturned the decision after VAR consultation.
In the 75th minute, Genino Palace came off the bench to score Stellies’ equalizer but after another VAR look, the goal was chalked off for an offside on De Jong.
Stellies boss Steven Barker took time out in his post-match interview to congratulate his South African counterpart Fadlu Davids on the opposition bench and also heaped huge credit to his players who he believes gave it their all on the afternoon.
“Yeah, look it’s obviously a tough one to take. I haven’t seen the replays [VAR],” Barker said.
“I’ve always wanted VAR to be brought in our own league and unfortunately its gone a little bit against us, mainly last week, but you know congratulations to Simba first thing. I wish Fadlu, Darren and all the South African contingent that are with Simba the best for the final.”
Meanwhile Sekhukhune United remained third in the Betway Premiership standings after drawing 1–1 with TS Galaxy at Dobsonville Stadium on Sunday afternoon.