Wanderers coach Mpinganjira relishes Champions League test against Simba SC

Wanderers head coach Bob Mpinganjira has described a tough Champions League draw against Tanzania’s Simba Sporting Club as an opportunity for his side to show its progress on the continental stage.

Mighty Wanderers Football Club will face Simba SC in the preliminary round of the 2026/27 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League, following a draw conducted in Cairo on Thursday.

The Malawian champions will play the first leg at home between 4 and 6 September, before travelling to Tanzania for the return leg between 11 and 13 September.

“To us it’s a great opportunity. I believe we have the potential not only to participate but also to compete,” Mpinganjira said.

“We didn’t do well last year in the CAF Confederation Cup. I believe we took lessons from that campaign and we should be able to apply them and improve this year.”

Team captain Emmanuel Nyirenda said the squad was ready for the challenge.

“Everything is possible in football. I will encourage my teammates to work extra hard so that we perform well this year,” he said.

The winner of the tie will progress to the next round to face the winner of the match between 15 De Agosto and Fomboni de Mohéli.

Sports analyst Twaha Chimuka said Wanderers would need to be at their best to overcome Simba SC.

“Wanderers has a lot to be done,” he said. “Winning against a big club like Simba SC will not be just a walkover.”