South African coach Fadlu David has reacted to his first big milestone in charge of Simba SC in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Simba advanced to the group stage of the Confederation Cup on Sunday after they beat Al Ahli Tripoli 3-1 on aggregate to secure what is only their second appearance at this stage of the tournament, according to The Citizen Tanzania.
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Notably, it is Davids' first season in charge after his appointment as head coach in July.
The former Orlando Pirates co-coach was left delighted with his side's landmark qualification, and they are now guaranteed $400 000 (R6.9 million) in prize money for reaching this stage of the CAFCC.
"Our young players, many of whom are new to this level of competition, really stepped up," Davids said, according to Tanzanian outlet Daily News.
"The experience gained from playing in environments like Tripoli is invaluable.
"You can explain strategies and tactics to the players, but nothing compares to the real experience of facing a team at this level, which often feels like a quarter-final or semi-final.
"... I want to thank our supporters for being with us every step of the way. Their presence, even from afar, motivates us to keep pushing forward.
"The atmosphere they create is incredible, and it really lifts the team."
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Simba will find out which three teams they will face in the group stage when the draw is conducted on Monday, 7 October.
The Tanzanian outfit are in Pot 1 for the draw, meaning they will avoid meeting RS Berkane, Zamalek, USM Alger in the first round proper as they are also in Pot 1.