Kaze Admits Chiefs’ Learning Curve In CAF Confed

Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze has admitted that his team is learning the hard way in the CAF Confederation Cup after conceding two goals in a row in moments of lack of concentration.

Kaze made the remarks after his team held Egyptian giants Zamalek to a 1-1 draw at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday in the Confederation Cup group stage match.

“I think we’re learning the hard way in the African competition as we’re conceding goals in a moment of lack of concentration,” Kaze said.

“But I feel like the reaction of the players after conceding the goal, we started playing well. We were the team that was on the front foot; we were a team that was making things

happen.

“I believe that in these circumstances and how we secured the point, it can give extra motivation and belief to the players.”

The draw against Zamalek was Chiefs’ second group stage match in the competition, after losing 2-1 to Al Masry in Egypt in their opening game.

Amakhosi have been out of CAF competitions for four seasons in a row, having last participated in the 2020/21 season, where they reached the final of the CAF Champions League but lost to Al Ahly, who were then coached by South African coach Pitso Mosimane.

Currently, Chiefs are sitting in third position in Group D with just one point. Their next game will be against the Zambian side ZESCO United on 25 January next year.

ZESCO United are currently without a point after losing both their opening two games against Zamalek and Al Masry.

In a major blow to Chiefs, two players, Gaston Sirino and Bradley Cross, suffered injuries before 20 minutes into the game, forcing the team to make a forced substitution.

Sirino, who was making his first start in the group stage after serving a suspension, had a promising game before getting injured.

“I believe that it was unfortunate because I thought that Sirino was well in the game,” Kaze added.

“He had a shot, I think 50 meters, and it hit the post. He had confidence and also experience, but it’s unfortunate for us and for him as well. Now the only thing is to assess his injury and see how he’s doing.”