Kaizer Chiefs have been eliminated from the CAF Confederation Cup after suffering a 3-2 penalty shootout defeat to Red Arrows at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday, despite winning the second leg 1-0.

Amakhosi entered the encounter needing to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg in Ndola, Zambia, and Bradley Cross delivered the crucial goal that levelled the aggregate score at 1-1. However, the Soweto giants failed to complete their comeback during the penalty shootout, allowing the Zambian outfit to advance to the next round.

Fernando Da Cruz's men started with attacking intent, determined to score early and put pressure on their opponents. Their first significant opportunity arrived in the 11th minute when Thulani Mabaso tested Red Arrows goalkeeper Charles Kalumba, who produced an important save.

Chiefs continued searching for a breakthrough but struggled against Red Arrows' organised defence. Pule Mmodi also came close in the second half, only for Kalumba to deny him in the 62nd minute.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 66th minute when Cross headed the ball into the net, sparking hope among the home supporters. Chiefs subsequently created opportunities to secure qualification, but Shabalala failed to convert two promising chances.

With neither side able to find another goal, the tie was decided on penalties, where Red Arrows held their nerve to win 3-2.

Meanwhile, Da Cruz has reportedly expressed frustration over the club's recruitment strategy, claiming that limited financial support prevented him from bringing in players of his choice. He also reportedly stated that management assembled the current squad. These comments have not been independently verified or officially confirmed by Kaizer Chiefs.

The elimination represents a significant disappointment for Amakhosi, who must now concentrate on their domestic campaign while questions surrounding squad depth, recruitment and the team's progress under Da Cruz continue to emerge.

Source

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