Kaizer Chiefs have been knocked out of the CAF Confederation Cup after losing 3-2 on penalties to Zambia's Red Arrows at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday, despite securing a 1-0 victory in the second leg.

Amakhosi went into the match needing to overturn a 1-0 defeat from the first leg in Ndola, Zambia. Bradley Cross scored the decisive goal to level the aggregate score at 1-1, but the Soweto giants ultimately failed to secure qualification after losing the penalty shootout.

Head coach Fernando Da Cruz's side started the encounter with an attacking approach, hoping to find an early goal and put Red Arrows under pressure.

Chiefs created their first notable opportunity in the 11th minute when Thulani Mabaso tested Red Arrows goalkeeper Charles Kalumba. However, the goalkeeper produced an important save to keep the visitors in the contest.

The home side continued pushing for the breakthrough but struggled to find space against a well-organised Red Arrows defence.

Pule Mmodi had another opportunity to put Chiefs ahead in the second half, but Kalumba once again came to his team's rescue in the 62nd minute.

The breakthrough finally arrived four minutes later. In the 66th minute, Cross rose to head the ball into the net, giving Chiefs the goal they desperately needed and bringing the aggregate score level at 1-1.

The goal lifted the home supporters' hopes of seeing their team progress to the next round. Chiefs continued searching for a second goal that would have helped them avoid the uncertainty of a penalty shootout.

However, Shabalala failed to convert two promising opportunities, leaving Amakhosi unable to extend their advantage before the final whistle.

With the aggregate score still level, the contest went to penalties. Red Arrows proved more successful from the spot, winning 3-2 to eliminate Chiefs from the competition.

The defeat represents a disappointing outcome for Amakhosi, who had hoped to continue their continental campaign. Their elimination means the team must now turn its attention to domestic competitions.

Meanwhile, reports have emerged suggesting that Da Cruz is unhappy with the club's recruitment strategy. He reportedly expressed frustration over limited financial backing, claiming that it restricted his ability to bring in players he wanted. He also allegedly indicated that the club's management was responsible for assembling the current squad.

These reported comments have not been independently verified or officially confirmed by Kaizer Chiefs.

Following the continental exit, questions are likely to continue surrounding the team's squad depth, recruitment decisions and progress under Da Cruz.

For Chiefs, the immediate challenge will be to recover from the setback and improve their performances in domestic competitions as they seek to meet expectations for the remainder of the season.

https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/caf-confederation-cup/chiefs-crash-out-of-caf-confe-cup/