Dismal Kaizer Chiefs’ CAF Confederation Cup Hopes
Dashed by Zamalek SC
Kaizer Chiefs’ hopes of reaching the CAF Confederation Cup quarter-finals were crushed after a 2–1 defeat to Egyptian giants Zamalek SC on Saturday evening in Ismailia, Egypt.
Chiefs entered the clash at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium as Group D leaders, needing just a draw to qualify. However, defensive lapses and missed chances saw their continental campaign come to a disappointing end.
Adding to the heartbreak, fellow Egyptians Al-Masry secured a 2–0 win over ZESCO United, leapfrogging Chiefs into second place on goal difference to clinch the final quarter-final spot.
Chiefs’ Missed Chances and Costly Errors
The Amakhosi began brightly, pressing high and creating promising openings down the wings. However, Zamalek found their rhythm and forced goalkeeper Brandon Petersen into key saves before the break.
Early in the second half, Zamalek’s Brazilian right half Juan Bezerra opened the scoring after a defensive error. Substitute Gastón Sirino tried to lift Chiefs’ attack, but momentum shifted when Al-Masry took the lead in the group’s other match — effectively ending Chiefs’ hopes.
Zamalek’s Abdallah El-Said doubled the lead in the 72nd minute before Congolese forward Glody Lilepo pulled one back late, sealing a 2–1 scoreline that wasn’t enough to save their campaign.
Mixed Fortunes for South African Clubs
While Chiefs bowed out, Mamelodi Sundowns advanced to the CAF Champions League quarter-finals after beating MC Alger at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates claimed a dominant 3-0 win over Marumo Gallants in the Betway, wrapping up a dramatic weekend for the country’s football heavyweights.
