
Morocco’s Renaissance Berkane claimed a commanding 2-0 victory against Tanzania’s Simba in the first leg of the African Confederation Cup final on Saturday, setting the stage for a tense return leg.
As favorites, having reached their fifth final in seven years, Berkane showcased their experience with a blistering start at home.
Mamadou Camara opened the scoring in the eighth minute, rising unchallenged to head in a perfectly delivered in-swinging corner. Just six minutes later, Oussama Lamlioui doubled the lead with a clinical finish, leaving Simba dazed and hinting at a potential thrashing.
The Moroccan side, who have lifted the trophy twice before, maintained intense pressure, with their attacking flair overwhelming the visitors.
A third goal by Youssef Mehri just past the hour mark sparked celebrations, but a prolonged VAR review ruled it offside, preserving Simba’s hopes.
Simba, competing in their first continental club final in 32 years, struggled to find their footing and created few scoring opportunities against a disciplined Berkane defense.
Despite the loss, Simba will take heart from the home advantage awaiting them in Zanzibar for the decisive second leg on May 25, where they’ll need a remarkable turnaround to claim the title.
Berkane, meanwhile, will aim to protect their lead and secure a third Confederation Cup triumph.