Kaizer Chiefs legend Zebulon Nhlapo believes a lack of confidence and panic in front of goal contributed to Mduduzi Shabalala and Asanele Velebayi’s missed chances against Red Arrows in the CAF Confederation Cup.

Speaking after Chiefs’ elimination from the competition, Nhlapo urged supporters to remain patient with the young players, arguing that they need encouragement and opportunities to learn from their mistakes rather than being subjected to excessive criticism.

Chiefs defeated the Zambian side 1-0 in the second leg of their second preliminary-round tie at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday, October 23, 2026. Bradley Cross scored the decisive goal in the match, levelling the aggregate score at 1-1 after Red Arrows had won the first leg by the same margin.

However, the South African side failed to find another goal and subsequently lost 3-2 in the penalty shootout, missing out on qualification for the group stage.

Shabalala had two significant opportunities to put Chiefs ahead in the tie. In the 79th minute, Mfundo Vilakazi created an opening that left the midfielder with an opportunity to score, but his effort went over the crossbar. A few minutes later, Ethan Chislett played him through on goal, only for Shabalala to shoot directly at goalkeeper Charles Kalumba.

Velebayi also missed a late opportunity after receiving the ball inside the penalty area, sending his effort over the crossbar as Chiefs struggled to secure qualification during normal time.

Nhlapo said the players’ current confidence levels may have affected their decision-making in crucial moments.

“The players will gain experience. What let them down on Friday was panic. They do not have much confidence at the moment. The supporters should give them a chance and allow them to make mistakes,” he told KickOff.

He also suggested that pressure from supporters could influence players’ performances, encouraging the team to learn from the experience and improve their composure in front of goal.

Chiefs must now regroup following their continental exit, with domestic fixtures ahead, including the upcoming Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates.

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