Chiefs Survive Penalty Drama to Advance in CAF Confed Cup

Kaizer Chiefs have booked their spot in the second preliminary round of the CAF Confederation Cup after overcoming a stubborn Kabuscorp side in a tense penalty shootout on Saturday afternoon. 

The victory followed a hard-fought encounter where the Amakhosi struggled to convert their dominance into goals against the resilient visitors.

Coach Molefi Ntseki opted for several changes following the midweek draw against Marumo Gallants, handing starts to Dillion Solomons, Pule Mmodi, Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, and the eventual goalscorer, Glodly Lilepo.

The host nation's side started with high intensity, controlling possession and creating early chances. In the tenth minute, a surging cross from Ngcobo found Bradley Cross, but the defender could only direct his effort wide of the far post. 

The Glamour Boys continued to probe, with Mmodi combining with Du Preez on the edge of the area, only for his shot to be confidently thwarted by the Kabuscorp defense. The pressure was relentless, and Cross later saw another close-range effort sail over after the visitors failed to clear their lines.

LILEPO RATTLED THE BACK OF THE NET FOR HOME SIDE

The sustained effort finally paid dividends just before the halftime whistle. A powerful strike from Solomons rebounded off the Kabuscorp goalkeeper, and Lilepo was on hand to power the loose ball in at the far post, sending Chiefs into the break with a deserved 1-0 lead.

Kabuscorp emerged for the second half with renewed vigor. The introduction of Lisandro in attack caused problems for the Chiefs defense, with his movement troubling goalkeeper Brandon Petersen in the opening 15 minutes. 

Seeing the momentum shift, Ntseki made a double substitution, bringing on Thabo Celefor Ngcobo and introducing Flavio Da Silva in place of Du Preez. Da Silva almost made an instant impact, unleashing a close-range shot after a strong run, but the Kabuscorp keeper was up to the task.

As the match entered the final quarter, the Angolan side grew in confidence, orchestrating several attempts that finally forced Petersen into action. With the scoreline remaining tight and clear-cut chances becoming scarce, the match headed to a penalty shootout.

Chiefs held their nerve, proving to be the more clinical side from the spot. Goalkeeper Petersen saved a crucial spot-kick,setting the stage for Aiden McCarthy to net the decisive effort and send the Amakhosi through to the next round. 

The victory ensures Kaizer Chiefs remain in continental contention, albeit after a closer contest than anticipated.