AFC appeal dismissed, Simba to face Bandari in semis

Kenyan side AFC Leopards’ appeal against Simba FC on the grounds that Simba FC had fielded an ineligible player has been rejected by the tournament organisers.

AFC Leopards had filed a protest claiming that Ghanaian International Lamine Moro, who played defence for Simba in the match, was still registered as a Buildcon player. Ingwe had argued that Moro’s contract with Zambian side Buildcon was still valid but a ruling by the tournament organisers stated that he (Moro) was a Simba player at the time of the match.

“The match organising committee would like to respond and inform you that the player named Lamine Moro from Buildcon FC (Zambia) was registered by Simba SC and approved by the Tanzania Football Federation with license No. 002821M94 issued on 15 January as per the SportPesa Cup 2019 Regulations, Section 5.5,” the ruling read in part.

Simba FC will now meet Bandari United in the semi-finals to be played on Friday. Bandari defeated Singida United 1-0 courtesy of a William Wadri penalty in the second half to book a spot in the semi-finals.

Bandari’s goalkeeper has urged his side not to think of the big names in Simba’s squad. Simba has arguably the best attack in the tournament with the likes of Clatous Chama, John Bocco and Meddie Kagere leading the front line.

“We will have to play the game of our lives to stand a chance (of beating Simba). We have attributes to win the game including hard work and teamwork, it is not about (the big names) names, this is an eleven versus eleven match,” said the 22-year-old keeper.

Another semi-final clash will see Mbao FC lock horns with on form Kariobangi Sharks. Sharks edged out Yanga FC with a 3-2 win while Mbao narrowly axed Gor Mahia from the tournament in a match that was decided via penalties after a one all draw.