They Do Not Have Much Confidence”: Chiefs Legend Explains Shabalala and Velebayi’s Costly Misses

Kaizer Chiefs legend Zebulon Nhlapo believes a lack of confidence could be behind Mduduzi Shabalala and Asanele Velebayi’s disappointing finishing against Red Arrows in the CAF Confederation Cup, as Amakhosi continue to face questions about their effectiveness in front of goal.

The Soweto giants suffered a painful continental exit after losing 3-2 on penalties to the Zambian outfit at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Friday, 23 October 2026. Despite securing a 1-0 victory on the night, Chiefs were eliminated after the two-legged tie finished 1-1 on aggregate.

Nhlapo Raises Concerns About Chiefs' Finishing

According to Nhlapo, the struggles experienced by Shabalala and Velebayi in front of goal could be linked to their current confidence levels.

The former Amakhosi winger believes that confidence plays a crucial role in a player's ability to make the right decisions during important moments, particularly when opportunities to score are limited.

For attacking players, composure is essential when presented with clear chances. However, uncertainty and pressure can affect decision-making, making it difficult to execute even the simplest finishes.

Shabalala endured a particularly frustrating evening against Red Arrows, missing two promising opportunities that could have helped Chiefs secure qualification for the group stages.

Velebayi also failed to capitalise on a late chance, leaving the home side without the decisive second goal they desperately needed.

Missed Opportunities Prove Costly

Chiefs had to overturn a 1-0 first-leg defeat to keep their continental ambitions alive.

Their breakthrough eventually arrived in the 66th minute when Bradley Cross headed home from a well-delivered free-kick by substitute Mfundo Vilakazi.

The goal levelled the aggregate score and gave Amakhosi renewed hope of progressing. However, the hosts failed to take advantage of their momentum.

Shabalala first fired over the crossbar after an excellent run from Vilakazi before missing another opportunity when Ethan Chislett played him through on goal.

Velebayi subsequently missed the target, allowing Red Arrows to survive the late pressure and take the contest into a penalty shootout.

The visitors eventually prevailed 3-2 from the spot to book their place in the competition's group stages.

Chiefs Must Find Their Confidence

Nhlapo's assessment highlights an important challenge facing Chiefs as they attempt to improve their performances in crucial matches.

While creating scoring opportunities remains encouraging, converting them consistently is what ultimately determines results.

Amakhosi must now focus on rebuilding confidence, sharpening their finishing and responding positively to the disappointment of their continental elimination.

With domestic competitions still providing opportunities for success, Chiefs will hope their attacking players rediscover their composure before their next crucial fixtures.

For Shabalala and Velebayi, the immediate task is clear: turn promising opportunities into goals and demonstrate the confidence required to deliver when their team needs them most.

Source https://x.com/i/status/2114810122425745525