Kaizer Chiefs look to continental experience as Confed Cup group stages begin

Kaizer Chiefs’ CAF Confederation Cup group-stage campaign begins this weekend with a demanding away fixture against Egyptian side Al Masry on Sunday.

Amakhosi will be aiming to progress beyond the group stages for the first time in this tournament, hoping to draw inspiration from their memorable 2021 CAF Champions League run, where they reached the final before losing 3–0 to Al Ahly.

They will, however, head into this clash without some of their most influential players. Gaston Sirino is unavailable due to suspension, while experienced winger Glody Lilepo did not travel to Egypt as he continues to recover from injury.

Only three players — Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, Reeve Frosler, and Bruce Bvuma — remain from the squad that reached the 2021 final. Here, we look at other key figures who could be crucial to helping Amakhosi secure a place in the knockout rounds.

Inacio Miguel

The Portuguese defender is expected to play a pivotal role, both in anchoring the defence and providing leadership in the squad. Miguel arrives with valuable continental pedigree, having featured in the CAF Champions League with Angolan side Petro de Luanda.

With eleven appearances in Africa’s premier club competition, in addition to experience in the Uefa Europa Conference League qualifiers during his stint with Romanian side FC Universitatea Cluj, Miguel brings a level of composure and maturity that Chiefs will rely on.

Thabiso Monyane

The former Orlando Pirates full-back endured a stop-start spell at the Buccaneers due to persistent injuries. However, since joining Chiefs, a fully fit Monyane has already shown flashes of how effective he can be.

He made seven appearances in the CAF Champions League with Pirates before game time became limited, and that exposure will be vital for Amakhosi. The 25-year-old is currently in the best form of his career and looks revitalised. With the added motivation of catching the eye of Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos ahead of the upcoming AFCON, a strong continental showing could boost both his confidence and his national-team prospects.

Khanyisa Mayo

Mayo spent last season with Algerian side CR Belouizdad, where he gained crucial experience in the Champions League group stages — including facing Orlando Pirates in a challenging and high-pressure environment.

Now on loan at Chiefs, Mayo has made a steady start to life in Naturena, and with the Glamour Boys a side that demands consistent performances, the momentum he picked up last season could help him settle more quickly. His limited but valuable continental exposure may prove important in their quest to advance to the next round.

Etiosa Ighodaro

The Nigerian striker already has seven Confederation Cup appearances under his belt, scoring four goals in the competition. Having also opened his Chiefs account with a goal in the 3–1 win over AS Simba, confidence seems to be flowing.

Competition for places in the striking department is intense, but Ighodaro’s proven ability in this tournament may put him in a strong position to lead the line for Amakhosi.

Lebohang Maboe

Game time has been scarce for the former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder since his arrival at Chiefs, but recent signs suggest he is edging closer to regular involvement. 

With 43 CAF Champions League appearances to his name, he is by far the most experienced continental campaigner in the squad. Chiefs will benefit greatly from tapping into that experience as they pursue qualification from what promises to be a highly competitive group.