Kaizer Chiefs win to move closer to CAF quarters

With ZESCO United also beating Zamalek 1-0 in Ndola, Kaizer Chiefs have one foot into the CAF Confederation Cup final eight.

FIRST HALF

The opening exchanges were played at a high tempo, with both sides moving the ball quickly between defence and attack in the first 10 minutes. Despite the end-to-end nature of the contest, neither team created a clear-cut chance early on.

Kaizer Chiefs had the first real sight of goal in the 10th minute when Goldy Lilepo lined up a well-positioned free kick, but his effort sailed high and wide.

As the half progressed, Amakhosi began to enjoy more territory, forcing Al Masry into spells of defending.

The breakthrough came in the 31st minute when Kaizer Chiefs were awarded a penalty following sustained pressure inside the box.

Al Masry players protested heavily, leading to a lengthy delay before play resumed. When order was restored, Flavio Da Silva kept his nerve, stepping up in the 38th minute to convert calmly and give Amakhosi a 1-0 lead.

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Al Masry responded before the break. In the 40th minute, they threatened with a powerful header that required a sharp save from Brandon Petersen, who reacted quickly to preserve Kaizer Chiefs’ advantage.

Deep into stoppage time, Mduduzi Shabalala won a free kick in a dangerous area, but Lilepo’s attempt was deflected for a corner as Amakhosi went into the interval in front.

ADEN MCCARTHY FINDS THE WINNER FOR KAIZER CHIEFS

The second half brought immediate drama. In the 57th minute, Al Masry levelled through Abderrahim Deghmoum, who burst into the box, beat Given Msimango with his first touch and volleyed home left-footed.

Kaizer Chiefs responded almost instantly. Three minutes later, Lebohang Maboe delivered a teasing free kick that Zitha Kwinika headed towards goal. The Al Masry goalkeeper spilled the ball, allowing Aden McCarthy to react quickest and tap in from close range to restore the lead.

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Moments later, Kaizer Chiefs could have extended their advantage. Pule Mmodi and Shabalala both had clear chances inside the box in quick succession, but neither was able to find the finish.

The closing stages saw Amakhosi manage the game well, keeping possession and limiting Al Masry’s opportunities until the final whistle.

The result leaves Kaizer Chiefs top of Group D with 10 points, followed by Zamalek on eight, Al Masry on seven and ZESCO United on three. Kaizer Chiefs now turn their focus to the final group match away to Zamalek in Cairo on Sunday.