ZANZIBAR, May 26 -- THE red sea of Simba SC supporters that flooded the New Amaan Complex in Zanzibar on Sunday left in silence, their cheers drowned in sorrow and disbelief.

What was meant to be a night of redemption became a haunting reminder of 1993, as the Tanzanian giants fell short again—this time against RS Berkane, who clinched the CAF Confederation Cup with a 3–1 aggregate after a 1–1 draw in the return leg.

From the opening whistle, there was electricity in the air. Simba entered the pitch with fire in their eyes, the weight of history on their shoulders, and a nation behind them. The crowd stood restless, desperate for an early sign. And it came.

In the 17th minute, Elie Mpanzu danced down the right flank, ...