Kaizer Chiefs legend Doctor Khumalo proud of Amakhosi but slams ‘silly goals’

Kaizer Chiefs legend Doctor Khumalo is impressed with his ex-team despite their elimination from the CAF Confederation Cup at the group stages.

Chiefs lost 2-1 away to Zamalek with Al Masry’s 1-0 victory over ZESCO United sending them home despite both teams having 10 points from their six group stage games.

The Soweto giants put up a gallant performance in the first half, which ended goalless, but conceded twice in the second half from Juan Alvina and Abdallah El Said and although Glody Lilepo pulled one back, it was not enough as Chiefs needed a draw to go through.

Given Msimango of Kaizer Chiefs against Zamalek. Photo – Kaizer Chiefs

Khumalo is proud of Chiefs’ campaign but feels they let themselves down in Ismailia by conceding easy goals due to their lapses in concentration at key moments of the match.

Doctor Khumalo lauds Kaizer Chiefs

“I think to be honest, I’m very proud of the boys and they made it possible for themselves to be where they are now,” Khumalo said while analysing the game on SABC Sport.

“And as we’re looking, I thought the game plan was proper, the first half, contained Zamalek 0-0 and a lapse of concentration allowing silly goals because if you were to ask me Zamalek was not that much of a threat.

“And for them to have a fighting spirit and score that goal, it shows that they do have players that are capable of changing the scene of the game and the nature of the game.

“It was just so unfortunate that they picked up so late for them to be pressurising Zamalek and I also have to give credit to Lilepo because he’s always giving you 100%.

Why should Amakhosi be happy?

“You score against the North African countries in a dead ball situation. Clearly you might have done something that they don’t have.”

Flavio da Silva of Kaizer Chiefs playing against Zamalek. Photo – Kaizer Chiefs

Khumalo has urged the Chiefs players to walk with their heads held high as he feels they gave a good account of themselves in the competition.

“And the unfortunate part here, I mean you can see Al Masry, 10 points against Chiefs’ 10 points. So, clearly they fought these boys,” he added. “The reason why I’m saying I’m happy with the last performance, which is the second half, it’s you are as good as your last game.”

Glamour Boys turn focus to PSL

Lebohang Maboe Kaizer Chiefs vs Zamalek — Image – Chiefs

“So, their last second half was the best. They played very well, they contained them and Zamalek were not a threat. Just footballing problems there and there for them to fix that,” said Khumalo.

“Other than that, they shouldn’t be disappointed. Yes, it’s disappointing that they’re out, but they must just keep their heads up.”

Chiefs will now turn their attention to the PSL as it is the only competition left for them to contest although they are eight points behind leaders Orlando Pirates with a game in hand.