Joshua Mutale Shines Despite Simba SC Defeat in CAF Confederation Cup Final
Zambian midfielder Joshua Mutale delivered a standout performance on the continental stage, scoring Simba SC’s only goal in the second leg of the 2024/2025 CAF Confederation Cup final against Moroccan giants RS Berkane. Despite Simba’s 1-1 draw in the return fixture, it wasn’t enough to overturn the 2-0 deficit from the first leg, with RS Berkane clinching the title 3-1 on aggregate.
Mutale’s goal, a sharp finish from a tight angle after a clever assist by Elie Mpanzu, briefly revived Simba’s hopes of a comeback. However, those hopes were dashed when substitute Soumaila Sidibe leveled the match for Berkane, securing their second-leg draw and confirming their status as champions.
For his heroic efforts and commanding presence in midfield, Joshua Mutale was named the TotalEnergies Man of the Match. It’s the latest accolade for the former Power Dynamos star, who was also recently named Man of the Match in Simba’s 2-1 league win over KMC in Tanzania.
Mutale’s red-hot form has also earned him his spot in Avram Grant’s 25-man provisional squad for Zambia’s upcoming international friendlies in Morocco on June 6 and 10. These games are part of the Chipolopolo’s preparation for the crucial FIFA World Cup qualifiers set to resume in September.
Though Simba fell short in their continental quest, Zambia can take pride in the rising star of Joshua Budo Mutale, who continues to represent the nation with distinction at club and international level.
