Red Arrows first assistant coach Kalililo Kakonje says the Airmen are ready to secure a place in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage as they prepare to face South African giants Kaizer Chiefs in Friday’s decisive second-leg encounter in Durban.

The Zambian side travel to the Moses Mabhida Stadium holding a slender 1-0 advantage from the first leg at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, leaving them within reach of a significant milestone in their continental campaign.

Kakonje said his players had prepared adequately for the challenge and understood the importance of delivering a disciplined performance to protect their lead and complete the job against a formidable opponent.

“We are ready for the game. We know what is at stake and the boys understand the responsibility that comes with representing Red Arrows, Zambia Air Force and Zambia on the continental stage,” Kakonje said.

The Airmen are targeting qualification for the group stage as they seek to strengthen their reputation in African football and become one of five Zambian representatives to progress to that phase of continental competition.

For Kakonje, the challenge extends beyond securing qualification, with the team determined to make the Zambia Air Force and the country proud on the continental stage.

Red Arrows have the advantage following their first-leg victory, but they will need to remain composed against a Kaizer Chiefs side looking to overturn the deficit on home soil.

A place in the group stage would represent an important achievement for Red Arrows and provide another boost to Zambia’s presence in the CAF Confederation Cup.

The second leg is scheduled for Friday, October 23, 2026, at 15:00 Central African Time at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, South Africa.