CAF Confederation Cup: Kaizer Chiefs eliminate AS Simba to secure group stage spot

Kaizer Chiefs secured their place in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage with a dominant 3-1 victory over AS Simba at Dobsonville Stadium on Sunday, sealing a 3-1 aggregate win after the first leg ended goalless in Lubumbashi.

The Soweto giants started with intensity and purpose, immediately putting the Congolese visitors under pressure. Just three minutes into the match, Etiosa Ighodaro announced his arrival on the continental stage with a debut goal.

Simba goalkeeper Dida Alhassani failed to gather Glody Lilepo’s powerful strike, allowing Ighodaro to pounce on the rebound and finish from close range.

That breakthrough enabled Chiefs to take full control of the contest. Midfielder Mfundo Vilakazi dictated the tempo, while Lilepo was a constant threat down the flank. Their dominance was soon reflected on the scoreboard when Zitha Kwinika made it 2-0 in the 14th minute, expertly volleying home a Vilakazi free kick that caught the Simba defence flat-footed.

Chiefs continued to exploit set pieces with precision, and their persistence was rewarded again midway through the first half. Lilepo rose above his marker to head in another Vilakazi delivery, extending the lead to 3-0 and putting Amakhosi firmly in command.

Simba, unable to cope with the high tempo, were forced into an early substitution as Junior Nyongani replaced Mabenga Kazadi in an attempt to stabilise the midfield. Chiefs, however, remained unfazed and controlled proceedings with composure and confidence.

At halftime, Lilepo was withdrawn after picking up a knock and replaced by Pule Mmodi, but Chiefs maintained their rhythm. Mmodi and Ighodaro combined well in attack, though they missed chances to increase the lead, while Vilakazi came close with a free kick that narrowly cleared the crossbar.

Head coach Cedric Kaze later handed a continental debut to youngster Asanele Velebayi in the 65th minute, further underlining the team’s growing depth and confidence.

Simba managed a late consolation when Aiden McCarthy inadvertently turned a cross into his own net, but it had little impact on the overall outcome, with Chiefs already in full control.

With a display built on defensive solidity, clinical finishing, and set-piece excellence, Kaizer Chiefs comfortably booked their place in the group stages and sent a strong signal of intent as they continue their pursuit of continental glory.