GU eye Simba scalp in ‘Ghetto’ CAF double header
Kabelo Boranabi | Friday September 19, 2025 11:02
GU are ready to take the continental stage by storm as they prepare to face Tanzanian giants Simba SC in the CAF Champions League’s preliminary round, part of a historic CAF double header at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium on Saturday. The day kicks off at 3pm with Young African FC of Namibia clashing with Royal Leopards of Eswatini in the CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round, followed by GU’s highly anticipated showdown with Simba SC at 7pm.
Two matches, four clubs, one venue, and the promise of electrifying African football action and Francistown is set to be the beating heart of regional football this weekend.
For GU, the focus is squarely on Simba SC, one of Africa’s top clubs, known for a high-budget squad packed with experienced and famous players. Yet, Pantev insists his team has the mentality and preparation to compete fearlessly.
“Preparations went well. The guys are ready. We are going to face one of the biggest teams in Africa with one of the highest budgets and very famous, expensive players. But we know we can’t lose anything in these matches,” Pantev told the media during the club’s open day on Wednesday.
“We will play without fear. We will fight for our names, for our logo, and for the Botswana flag.”
Pantev, in his first season in Botswana, already boasts a remarkable achievement, guiding Orapa United to the group stages of the CAF Confederation Cup, a first for the club. Now at the helm of GU, he is optimistic that the 'Money Machine' can make a significant impact on the continental scene. “Last season with Orapa United, nobody believed in us. Nobody thought we could get through the first two preliminary rounds and reach the group stage,” he reflected.
'This season, GU is better. We have strengthened the squad, added quality, and I think our chances are not bad. Our focus is step by step, first Simba, then we will see the rest of the competition. Every match in these tournaments is difficult, but we have the right mindset and talent to compete,' he said.
Pantev is keeping a close eye on Simba SC’s revamped squad, acknowledging the challenge posed by the Tanzanian side’s new signings and limited competitive games so far. Yet, he remains confident in GU’s ability to rise to the occasion.
“Simba changed a lot of their players and only played one official game so far. We’ve studied them and believe we can compete.
“Our squad has nine national team players and other young guys with experience in youth international tournaments. We have enough quality to give Simba a run for their money,” he said.
The Reds travelled to Francistown on Thursday and will have a single training session today ahead of tomorrow's clash. Their opponents also landed in Gaborone yesterday and flew to Francistown, where they will also have a taste of the match day venue this afternoon.
Tickets are selling at P50 for the Grand Stand and P40 for all other stands.