Kaizer Chiefs will aim to revive their CAF Confederation Cup campaign on Saturday afternoon when they host Egyptian giants Zamalek SC at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.
The Group D encounter carries significant weight for both sides. Chiefs return home after a narrow 2–1 defeat to Al Masry in Egypt last weekend, a result that disappointed the squad but did not dampen their belief. Zamalek arrive in South Africa on the back of a strong start, having defeated ZESCO United in their opening group match.
For Amakhosi, the fixture offers a timely chance to respond and reset. Head coach Cedric Kaze said the performance in Egypt provided enough encouragement to approach the Zamalek clash with confidence.
“We did not start as well as we wanted in the previous game, but we still have five matches to go,” Kaze said during the pre-match press conference. “Even though we lost, there were moments where we showed what we are capable of. We are very confident about tomorrow’s match. These are the games every player looks forward to, facing big teams like Zamalek, and it is a good opportunity for us to redeem ourselves.”
Kaze added that the team had taken valuable lessons from the Al Masry defeat, particularly in key phases of the match.
“Experience influences how you manage a game. The second goal we conceded from a set piece was unfortunate and came from a technical mistake. We had been playing well before that, but it reminded us that we must be more clinical and more focused in both boxes. It is a lesson we are taking forward,” he said.
Forward Khanyisa Mayo shared the optimism in the Chiefs camp, noting both the challenge and the excitement of competing in CAF competitions.
“It is a different ball game when it comes to CAF,” Mayo said. “North African teams are very physical compared to South African sides, but we are ready for the test. The mood in the camp is high and we are expecting a very good game.”
Mayo, who has featured in continental football before, said representing Chiefs on the African stage carries both pride and responsibility.
“Playing in CAF competitions comes with huge responsibility. Every player wants to be part of CAF every season because it is a great platform for the team and the individuals. It is not easy, but playing at home will help us because we will have our supporters behind us,” he added.
With Chiefs back in front of their fans, the squad hope the supporters will play a crucial role in pushing them towards victory.
“We need the 12th man,” Mayo said. “Their support will give us a big boost as we go in search of maximum points.”
Credit: Kaizer Chief media
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