Kaizer Chiefs made history on Sunday after defeating AS Simba 3-1 at Dobsonville Stadium to secure qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup group stage for the first time in the club’s history. The win marked a proud moment for the Soweto giants and their supporters, who witnessed a performance full of energy, precision, and belief.
Head coach Cedric Kaze praised his players for their fighting spirit and professionalism after a turbulent few weeks at the club. He described the qualification as a “historic moment” that underlined the progress Chiefs are making on and off the pitch.
Kaizer Chiefs’ Early Dominance and Clinical Finishing
After the first leg in Lubumbashi ended goalless, Amakhosi came out strong in front of their home fans. In the third minute, new signing Etiosa Ighodaro scored his debut goal, reacting quickly after Simba goalkeeper failed to hold a strike from Glody Lilepo.
Chiefs maintained the pressure, and defender Zitha Kwinika added a second in the 14th minute, volleying home a superb free kick from Mfundo Vilakazi. Their set-piece precision proved unstoppable when Glody Lilepo headed in a corner from Mfundo Vilakazi to make it 3-0 before the half-hour mark.
AS Simba’s defence struggled to contain Chiefs’ pace and sharp combinations, while the home side dominated possession and territory with confidence.
Cedric Kaze Applauds Team Mentality
Speaking after the match, Kaze expressed pride in how his team handled the pressure and remained focused despite recent off-field distractions.
“We are very happy to qualify for the group stages. It is a historic moment for the club. The players made a tremendous effort, and the fans deserve this joy,” he told SABC Sport.
Kaze added that Chiefs’ tactical setup was key to their success, with players chosen for their creativity, aerial ability, and composure on the ball. He highlighted Ighodaro’s strength in the box and Lilepo’s pace as major advantages in breaking down the Simba defence.
A Late Response and What Comes Next
AS Simba pulled one back in the 81st minute when Aden McCarthy turned the ball into his own net, but by then, the game was beyond reach. Chiefs controlled the final minutes to seal a convincing 3-1 victory on aggregate. The result brings much-needed positivity for the Glamour Boys, especially after recent changes in the technical team. It also sends a clear message that Kaizer Chiefs are ready to compete at the highest level in continental football.
With the CAF Confederation Cup group stage draw on the horizon, Chiefs will now turn their focus to maintaining their momentum and preparing for tougher challenges ahead.
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Kaizer Chiefs’ 3-1 triumph over AS Simba was more than a victory; it was a statement of intent. After years of inconsistency on the continental stage, Amakhosi have finally broken new ground by qualifying for the CAF Confederation Cup group stage for the first time.
Under Cedric Kaze, the team has rediscovered its rhythm, showing discipline, tactical awareness, and hunger to compete against Africa’s best. The historic qualification not only lifts morale among fans but also signals the beginning of a new era for the club.
