Al Masry vs Kaizer Chiefs: Amakhosi look to two stars for inspiration

Only two players from the squad that landed in Egypt on Thursday morning remain from the Kaizer Chiefs team that reached the CAF Champions League final in 2021.

Goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma and midfielder Nkosingiphile ‘Mshini’ Ngcobo will carry that experience into Amakhosi’s opening CAF Confederation Cup Group D clash against Al Masry in Suez on Sunday. Both are determined to go one better this time after the heartbreak of losing to Al Ahly in the final four years ago.

Rather than dwelling on past disappointment, Bvuma told kaizerchiefs.com how much he values being back on the continental stage:

“Being back is very exciting. I was fortunate to play in a CAF final and remember how special that journey was,” he recalls. “Yes, there were challenges along the way, but it was a great experience. Playing on the continent gives you exposure, and we’ve seen players earn moves abroad after performing well against top African teams.”

The duo are among the few Glamour Boys with continental pedigree, and Bvuma believes their guidance will be crucial for teammates making their debut at this level:

“Having players with experience, like ‘Mshini’, and also Khanyisa Mayo, Inacio Miguel and Lebo Maboe, will help us a lot,” he says.

On Sunday’s opponents, Bvuma adds:

“We know Al Masry are a strong side with typical North African resilience, so we expect a tough battle. But I believe we have the quality to cope and return with a positive result. Getting three points would be ideal because we don’t want to reach the last round under pressure. At the same time, it’s vital not to lose the first game, which could put us on the back foot.”

Ngcobo, who earned a place in the CAF Champions League Team of the Tournament in 2021, is equally determined to make a deep run, starting with a solid away performance:

“I’m happy we’ve qualified for the group stage and now want to win games because my goal is to go all the way,” he says. “The coaches told us that a win here will set the tone for reaching the next phase, even though it won’t be easy. Playing away, we need to keep things tight and take every chance that comes.”

His advice to teammates stepping onto the continental stage for the first time:

“It’s an experience they’ll cherish for life, so they must go out there and give their best.”