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red arrows receive congratulations after stunning kaizer chiefs in caf confederation cup
JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — 28 OCTOBER 2026 — Congratulatory messages continue to pour in for Zambian football club Red Arrows after the team achieved a memorable milestone by eliminating South African giants Kaizer Chiefs from the CAF Confederation Cup.
The achievement has attracted widespread attention in African football, with Red Arrows earning recognition for their determination, discipline and composure under pressure against one of South Africa’s most recognisable football clubs.
The Zambian side secured qualification for the 2026/27 CAF Confederation Cup group stage after defeating Chiefs 3-2 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 aggregate draw. The decisive second-leg encounter took place at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Friday, 23 October.
According to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the result was among the notable outcomes of the second preliminary round, as Red Arrows booked their place in the next phase of the continental competition.
Red Arrows earn historic recognition
Red Arrows demonstrated resilience throughout the two-legged encounter, particularly during the return fixture, when Chiefs attempted to overturn their first-leg disadvantage.
The Soweto giants entered the Durban match needing a positive result after suffering a 1-0 defeat in Zambia. Bradley Cross eventually scored in the 65th minute to give Chiefs a 1-0 victory on the night and level the aggregate score at 1-1.
However, the South African side could not find another goal to secure qualification during normal time. The tie proceeded to penalties, where Red Arrows held their nerve to win 3-2 and send Chiefs crashing out of the competition.
The result represented a major achievement for the Zambian club, which advanced to the group stage for the first time in its history.
Red Arrows coach Chisi Mbewe subsequently highlighted the importance of mental strength in overcoming a team with the stature and experience of Kaizer Chiefs.
He explained that his players understood the challenge awaiting them in Durban and needed to remain focused and committed to their objective.
Source https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2115412065376457118