TALKING POINTS | Congo bug rattles Chiefs while Pirates fail, leaving Downs to fly the flag

This past weekend marked a turbulent chapter for PSL clubs in CAF competitions, with four representatives on the continental stage experiencing mixed fortunes.

Mamelodi Sundowns flew the South African flag with a commanding performance, while Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates faced contrasting challenges in their fixtures. Kaizer Chiefs’ players, affected by suspected food poisoning, showed remarkable grit to hold their Congolese opponents to a hard-fought draw, keeping their hopes alive.

Less fortunate were Orlando Pirates, who suffered a shocking 3-0 defeat to FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo, a team returning to the CAF Champions League after a 15-year absence. Meanwhile, Stellenbosch FC secured a goalless draw in Equatorial Guinea, leaving them with the task of finding goals in the return leg — one of five key takeaways from the weekend’s CAF action.

1 Stomach bug hits Chiefs hard

Kaizer Chiefs coach Khalil Ben Youssef was proud of his team’s gritty display in a tense 0-0 draw against AS Simba. On the morning of the match, five players were struck by suspected food poisoning, leaving them in pain.

“I don’t know what happened with the food, but we were really in a tough spot that morning. With five players unwell, there were doubts about their ability to play,” Ben Youssef said. “Despite not being at their best, they showed incredible heart and took a big risk for the team.”

While some may view the draw as a disappointment, given the circumstances it was a testament to Chiefs’ determination.

2 Lupopo’s plan foils Pirates

FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo coach Guy Bukasa praised his side’s tactical execution after a 3-0 victory over Orlando Pirates.

“We understood their strengths, and it clearly showed. They had good ball control, but we were sharp, especially during transitions. That was key to holding our ground against a strong opponent. We managed to capitalise on our moments of strength,” Bukasa said.

Looking ahead to the second leg at Orlando Stadium, he added: “It won’t unfold in the same way, but I expect they will control possession similarly. It’s up to us to devise the right approach to neutralise their threats.”

3 Sundowns’ prowess on display

Mamelodi Sundowns’ 5-1 win sent a clear message: they are serious contenders in African football. The team’s intricate play and calculated movements highlighted a well-defined strategy, while individual skill elevated the overall performance.

This victory boosts Sundowns’ morale and reinforces their reputation as a formidable force on the continent.

4 Athlone goal hunt is on

Stellenbosch FC’s Confed Cup semi-final run last season set high expectations. In Saturday’s first-leg tie against 15 de Agosto, the Winelands side delivered a strong display despite a goalless draw in challenging conditions in Equatorial Guinea.

In the return leg at Athlone, they must convert opportunities into goals if they hope to advance further in the tournament.

5 Du Preez’s missed chance

Striker Ashley du Preez’s late miss against AS Simba highlighted Chiefs’ struggles in front of goal. With an open goal, he failed to score, complicating Chiefs’ path in the tournament.

With a squad that struggles against physically imposing opponents, Chiefs must adapt quickly if they are to survive the next leg.