For Kaizer Chiefs, there’s no time to sit back and reflect on what went wrong.
After suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Kabuscorp in the CAF Confederation Cup, the team has to quickly shift focus to what lies ahead.
Julio’s decisive strike in the 59th minute was enough to hand the Angolan side the advantage in Luanda, leaving Amakhosi with work to do when the tie shifts to FNB Stadium.
First-Leg Lineups in Luanda
In the opening clash, Chiefs set out with Petersen in goal, supported by defenders Mako, Kwinika, Miguel (captain), and McCarthy before Frosler came on later.
The midfield featured Mthethwa, Cele, and Shabalala, who was replaced by Vilakazi late in the game.
Up front, Mmodi, Lilepo, and Da Silva led the attack, though changes came in with Sirino, Du Preez, and Duba all getting minutes.
On the other side, Kabuscorp’s lineup included Anselmo in goal, with Beni Pape and Henock marshaling the back.
Julio, the eventual match-winner, made his mark in the second half. Their coach, Beto Bianchi, pulled the strings from the sidelines.
Turning Attention to the Premiership
Before the second leg against Kabuscorp, Chiefs have another important task at home.
On Heritage Day, Wednesday, they will face Marumo Gallants in the Betway Premiership at FNB Stadium, with kick-off set for 17:30.
Training sessions on Monday and Tuesday will be crucial in preparing for this domestic clash.
The pressure will be high, as fans will not only expect a win but a convincing performance.
A strong result against Gallants could help restore confidence and build momentum before the must-win showdown against Kabuscorp on Saturday.
Kaizer Chiefs’ History in the CAF Confederation Cup
The CAF Confederation Cup hasn’t been the kindest to Chiefs in the past.
Their best runs came in 2013/14, when they reached the Last 16, and in 2018/19, when they bowed out in the second round.
Now, they’re pushing to go further and possibly rewrite their story in the competition.
The Roadmap to Continental Glory
For Chiefs to go all the way in this tournament, the path is a tough one:
-
First Preliminary Round (two legs)
-
Second Preliminary Round (two legs)
-
Group Stage with four teams in each group, where the top two progress
-
Quarterfinals (two legs)
-
Semifinals (two legs)
-
Final (two legs)
Each step demands consistency, depth, and resilience—qualities Chiefs will need in abundance if they hope to make history.
What’s Next?
The immediate challenge is clear: bounce back in the Premiership against Gallants, then deliver a statement at home against Kabuscorp.
Amakhosi know that anything less than victory in both matches could derail their momentum.
The next week will test not just the squad’s talent but also their mentality, with the fans watching closely.