Kaizer Chiefs secured their place in the CAF Confederation Cup group
stages for the first time in the competition’s history with a commanding
3-1 victory over AS Simba at a vibrant Dobsonville Stadium on Sunday.
The Amakhosi put on a first-half masterclass, effectively sealing the tie
within the first 25 minutes. The decision to recall Glody Lilepo paid
immediate dividends, as the Congolese midfielder forced a save that
allowed Etiosa Ighodaro to pounce and slot home his first-ever goal for
the club just three minutes in.
The lead was swiftly doubled in the 14th minute when Zitha Kwinika rose
highest to turn Mfundo Vilakazi’s pinpoint free-kick past the helpless
goalkeeper. The onslaught continued as the influential Lilepo powered a
towering header from another Vilakazi delivery to make it 3-0, sending the
home crowd into a frenzy.
The only setback of the half came just before the break, as the goalscorer
Lilepo had to be stretchered off following an earlier knock.
Chiefs controlled the tempo in the second half, with Pule Mmodi missing a
clear chance to add a fourth. AS Simba managed a late consolation goal
with ten minutes remaining, a fortunate deflection off Aden McCarthy, but
it was too little, too late for the Congolese side.
The final whistle confirmed Chiefs’ progression, marking a significant
continental milestone for the club.
Lineups:
Kaizer Chiefs: Petersen, Cross, McCarthy, Kwinika, Solomons, Mthethwa,
Ngcobo, Shabalala, Vilakazi (Velebayi 65′), Lilepo (Mmodi 46′), Ighodaro.
Subs: Bvuma, Frosler, Matlou, Cele, Maboe, Sirino, Mmodi, Velebayi, Du
Preez.
