Kaizer Chiefs beaten by Red Arrows to face uphill Confederation Cup task

Kaizer Chiefs will have to overturn a 1-0 deficit in the second leg after losing to Red Arrows in the first leg at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.

The result puts significant pressure on Fernando Da Cruz’s side as they attempt to reach the CAF Confederation Cup group stages.

The match was not televised in South Africa, with Da Cruz making one change to the team that drew with Stellenbosch FC. Luke Baartman came into the starting line-up in place of Wandile Duba.

Chiefs were also forced into an early change when Thabiso Monyane went off injured after 30 minutes. He was replaced by Thulani Mabaso.

Red Arrows created the clearer opportunities during the opening half, with the home side looking more threatening in Ndola. Da Cruz responded at half-time by withdrawing Baartman and introducing Flavio Da Silva.

Chiefs registered their first shot on target eight minutes after the restart, but they continued to struggle to create a decisive opening in the final third.

Da Cruz made another attacking change after 71 minutes, sending on Duba and Etiosa Ighodaro as Kaizer Chiefs searched for a way back into the tie.

The hosts broke the deadlock five minutes later when Alassane Diarra headed in from a corner.

The goal gave Red Arrows a narrow advantage to take into the return fixture, while Kaizer Chiefs must now win at home to progress to the CAF Confederation Cup group stages.