Continental Return Looms as Kaizer Chiefs Eye African Football Amid Domestic Struggles

Kaizer Chiefs could soon make a return to continental football, a potential lifeline for a club that has found consistency hard to come by in the domestic scene this season.

Despite their underwhelming Premier Soccer League campaign, the Soweto giants are on course to secure a Caf Confederation Cup spot, thanks to their run to the Nedbank Cup final. Should they lose the final to Orlando Pirates—who are likely to qualify for the Caf Champions League via a top-two league finish—Chiefs would be granted South Africa’s Caf Confederation Cup berth.

This prospect has sparked both hope and caution within the club’s ranks and among its supporters. While playing on the African stage offers a chance to restore pride, it will also serve as a massive test for a side that has failed to live up to expectations domestically.

Former Amakhosi defender and Bafana Bafana captain Lucas Radebe shared his perspective on the club’s potential return to continental action.

“I think it’s a great club. Teams like Chiefs, when they hit a dip, it’s very hard. But when they come up again, they have to prove themselves,” Radebe told KickOff.

“They have to make sure they rise to the occasion in the Champions League or Confederation Cup. It’s about consistency, pride, and returning with the trophy, just like Sundowns and Pirates have been trying to do.”

Kaizer Chiefs previously defied the odds by reaching the Caf Champions League final in the 2020/21 season, despite a poor domestic run. That underdog story remains a source of inspiration and proof that Amakhosi are capable of turning things around on the biggest stages.

Next season, Chiefs could have a new look under expected incoming coach Nasreddine Nabi. Should the Tunisian tactician take over, significant squad reinforcements could follow—signings crucial to equipping the team for the rigours of continental football.

In the short term, however, the Glamour Boys remain focused on wrapping up the current campaign. A home clash against Marumo Gallants awaits on April 26, followed by a Soweto Derby and the all-important Nedbank Cup final on May 10.

While continental qualification now looks likely, Chiefs still aim to finish the season on a strong note, even if a top-eight finish becomes less critical. For a team with rich history and sky-high expectations, competing in Africa could be the spark needed to restore their reputation.