CAF Champions League: Petro de Luanda edge Simba SC 1-0 to open Group D campaign

Petro de Luanda began their CAF Champions League Group D journey with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Simba SC on Sunday, November 23, at the Benjamin Mpaka Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

The Angolan side secured all three points thanks to a late second-half strike from Bernardo Días, whose 78th-minute effort made the difference in a tight contest.

The goal came after Petro adjusted their approach following the break, with coach Flavío introducing Tiago Reis, Toro and Gilberto to refresh the attack.

The changes paid off when a defensive tackle initiated a move that saw Gigal deliver a cross to Bernardo Días, whose long-range strike took a deflection off De Reuck and wrong-footed goalkeeper Ali.

Simba SC had enjoyed a promising first half with several attacking movements, but struggled to threaten Hugo Marques’ goal. Both teams pushed with intensity, trading attacking moments without success before the decisive goal shifted the momentum.

Simba nearly equalised moments later when Abraham forced a strong save from Marques in the 79th minute, but Petro held firm through seven minutes of added time to secure a winning start to their group campaign.

They now turn their attention to what will be a tough encounter against Tunisian side Espérance de Tunis in their next fixture.