Kaizer Chiefs’ CAF Confederation Cup campaign came to a disappointing end after they lost to Red Arrows on penalties at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday, despite winning the second leg 1-0 to level the aggregate score at 1-1.
Amakhosi returned home looking to overturn the 1-0 deficit from the first leg, but Red Arrows proved difficult to break down as the two sides battled for a place in the next round.
Bruce Bvuma was called into action early, producing a spectacular save in the seventh minute. Chiefs responded with Thulani Mabaso testing the visitors’ goalkeeper four minutes later, but his effort was also saved.
The hosts continued to pile on the pressure, winning a series of corners in the 30th minute. Pule Mmodi came close before the break, heading straight at the goalkeeper in the 41st minute.
Chiefs continued searching for the breakthrough after the restart, with Mfundo Vilakazi introduced in the 57th minute. Their persistence finally paid off in the 65th minute when Cross rose highest to head home Vilakazi’s free-kick, giving Amakhosi the goal they needed to level the aggregate score.
Red Arrows’ goalkeeper produced an excellent one-on-one save in the 84th minute before substitute Velebayi missed a big opportunity a minute later as Chiefs pushed for a second goal.
Neither side could find another breakthrough, sending the tie to a penalty shootout after the match ended 1-0, with the aggregate score level at 1-1.
The shootout proved heartbreaking for Amakhosi. Maboe struck the crossbar with Chiefs’ opening penalty, while Bvuma gave the hosts hope by saving Pento’s attempt for Red Arrows.
Shabalala converted Chiefs’ second penalty, but Red Arrows responded. Frosler then saw his effort saved, while the Zambian side continued to convert from the spot. Vilakazi scored Chiefs’ fourth penalty, but Red Arrows maintained their composure.
With the tie still hanging in the balance, Ethan Chislett stepped up for Chiefs’ fifth attempt but struck the crossbar, sealing Amakhosi’s elimination from the CAF Confederation Cup.
Despite fighting back to level the aggregate score on home soil, Chiefs were left to rue missed opportunities as Red Arrows progressed following the penalty shootout.