It’s all or nothing for Kaizer Chiefs this Saturday as they prepare for a decisive CAF Confederation Cup showdown with Kabuscorp at FNB Stadium. Kick-off is set for 15:00, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Amakhosi head into this clash trailing 1-0 on aggregate after Julio’s 59th-minute strike condemned them to defeat in Luanda last weekend.
But the tie is far from over, and the path to progression is still within reach.
What Chiefs Need to Advance
The math is simple but unforgiving. Chiefs must win by at least two clear goals to seal qualification.
A 2-0 victory would see them advance outright, but a 1-0 result would drag the contest into dreaded penalty kicks—something neither players nor fans want to gamble on in such a high-pressure moment.
Injury Setbacks Shake the Squad
Interim coach Cedric Kaze shared some disappointing news ahead of the fixture.
Defender Paseka Mako and midfielder Siphesihle Ndlovu have both been ruled out with injuries, forcing last-minute changes to the game plan.
Adding to the frustration, Khanyisa Mayo—who many hoped would add firepower upfront—has yet to be registered for continental competition. He’ll have to watch from the stands instead.
New Faces Get Their Chance
With Mako sidelined, Bradley Cross is expected to slot in at left back.
Meanwhile, Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, who has been left out of the last four matchday squads, looks set to step into Ndlovu’s midfield role.
Up front, Kaizer Chiefs will turn to their Guinea international, Flavio Silva.
The striker has already notched two goals in just three appearances, making him a natural fit to lead the line in Mayo’s absence.
Predicted Starting XI vs Kabuscorp
Here’s how Chiefs are likely to line up for the crucial clash:
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Goalkeeper: Brandon Petersen
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Right back: Reeve Frosler
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Centre backs: Inacio Miguel, Zitha Kwinika
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Left back: Bradley Cross
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Midfielders: Sibongiseni Mthethwa, Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, Gaston Sirino
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Forwards: Glody Lilepo, Ashley du Preez, Flavio da Silva
What’s at Stake
A victory won’t just keep Chiefs’ continental dream alive—it will also book them a spot in the second preliminary round.
Waiting on the other side will be either Djabal FC from Comoros or Simba SC from the Democratic Republic of Congo.
For Amakhosi, this Saturday isn’t just another game.
It’s a chance to rally their supporters, overcome early setbacks, and remind Africa of their pedigree on the continental stage.