Kaizer Chiefs Focus on Resilience Ahead of CAF Confederation Cup Group Stage
Kaizer Chiefs are preparing for a challenging start to their CAF Confederation Cup campaign following the upcoming FIFA break. The Soweto giants will begin Group D action with a long journey to Egypt, where they will face Al Masry in Suez on November 23. The trip involves a flight to Cairo, followed by a 90-minute drive to the seaport city. Chiefs will then return home for their second group match against Egyptian giants Zamalek on November 30. ZESCO United from Zambia completes the group, offering additional competitive pressure.
Al Masry currently sit fifth in the Egyptian Premier League, while Zamalek are positioned third in the same standings. ZESCO United occupy a spot in the bottom half of the Zambian league table. Al Masry have seen four different coaches this year, including Ali Maher, Anis Boujelbene, the late Mimi Abdelrazek, and current coach Nabil Kouki. Their recent form has been mixed, with three of their last four matches ending goalless. Chiefs’ coaching staff are aware of the challenges posed by this group, highlighting the need for a focused start.
Co-coach Cedric Kaze acknowledged the toughness of the draw and the importance of taking immediate control in the group stage. “It is not an easy draw. It is two very good Egyptian teams and also against ZESCO. The first game is very important… it is an away game. We need to go out there and perform,” he said. Chiefs intend to approach the matches with a proactive mindset, aiming to secure maximum points early. Kaze emphasized that every point in the group stage will be crucial, unlike the preliminary rounds where teams could manage their results more conservatively.
The focus ahead of the Al Masry match is on maintaining intensity and discipline throughout the 90 minutes. Chiefs are planning to adapt to both the travel and environmental conditions in Suez. Their preparation will include tactical drills to counter Al Masry’s defensive stability and exploit weaknesses on the counterattack. Chiefs’ squad depth and recent form in domestic competitions provide a foundation for confidence. The team will need to balance energy management with a high level of technical performance to start their campaign positively.
Looking ahead to the home clash against Zamalek, Chiefs aim to build momentum from their first away game. Zamalek’s reputation as one of Egypt’s strongest sides presents a test of character and resilience for the South African side. Chiefs’ co-coaching team are placing particular emphasis on mental readiness and team cohesion for both fixtures. Success in the opening games could provide a platform for a strong showing in Group D. Chiefs are set on starting their Confederation Cup journey with a determined, front-foot approach to maximize their chances of advancing.
