Kaizer Chiefs was able to qualify for CAF Group stages on Sunday. Image by The South African
(The Post News)– For the first time in 12 years, Kaizer Chiefs have reached the CAF Confederation Cup group stages, following an impressive 3-1 victory over AS Simba of the Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday at the Dobsonville Stadium.
Amakhosi last advanced this far in continental competition back in 2012, when they were knocked out by Ivorian giants ASEC Mimosas. After a goalless first leg in Lubumbashi the previous weekend, Chiefs made no mistake on home soil, finishing the job in front of their fans with a dominant first-half display.
The hosts came out flying, with Etiosa Ighodaro opening the scoring in just the third minute, slotting home a rebound from Glody Lilepo’s effort. It was a dream start for the Nigerian striker, who netted his first goal for the club.
Zitha Kwinika made it 2-0 in the 14th minute, steering home a perfect delivery from youngster Mfundo Vilakazi after a well-worked set piece. Chiefs captain Brandon Petersen was called into action a few times to keep Simba at bay, pulling off important saves to protect his side’s lead.
The relentless pressure paid off again when Lilepo turned scorer in the 26th minute, heading home Vilakazi’s corner to extend the advantage to 3-0. The Congolese forward’s energetic performance earned him a well-deserved goal before halftime.
Chiefs continued to dominate in the second half, creating several chances to add to their tally, including a close call from Ighodaro, whose effort rattled the crossbar.
While Amakhosi celebrated progress, it was heartbreak for Orlando Pirates, who were eliminated on penalties despite mounting a dramatic three-goal comeback against St. Eloi Lupopo.
Elsewhere in the continent’s competitions, record holders Al Ahly advanced comfortably after a 2-0 aggregate win over Aigle Noir, while defending champions Pyramids FC were held to a 1-1 draw away to Ethiopian Medhin and will conclude their tie-on 1 November.
Qualified Team:
- Al Ahly
- Mamelodi Sundowns
- Simba
- Esperance
- Stade Malien
- Al Hilal
- Kabylie
- Young Africans
- Rivers United
- Petro de Luanda
- St. Eloi Lupopo
- Simba SC
- AS Far
- Power Dynamos
- Kaizer Chiefs
Teams Yet to Qualify:
- Pyramids/Ethiopian Medhin
- RS Berkane/Al Ahli Tripoli
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