Kaze Embraces CAF Confederation Cup Challenge as Kaizer Chiefs Prepare for Elite Continental Opposition
Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze has expressed confidence and excitement ahead of the CAF Confederation Cup group stage, highlighting the strength of potential opponents and the opportunity it presents for Amakhosi to measure their growing capabilities on the continental stage.
Chiefs secured their place in the group stages following an emphatic 3-1 victory over AS Simba at Dobsonville Stadium, a result that confirmed the club’s return to inter-club competition prominence. The achievement has sparked renewed optimism within the Naturena camp, particularly with the team demonstrating improved tactical balance and sharper attacking play under the joint stewardship of Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef.
Speaking after the club sealed qualification, Kaze did not shy away from acknowledging the calibre of teams already waiting in the group phase. He highlighted Zamalek, Wydad Casablanca, and CR Belouizdad as examples of top-tier opposition that Chiefs may encounter. These clubs boast rich success in CAF competitions and remain among Africa’s most competitive outfits.
“Our qualification is a reward for the hard work the players have put in,” Kaze stated. “I was checking the teams in the CAF Confederation Cup and it’s actually some serious clients; Zamalek, Wydad, Belouizdad, such good teams. We are happy to go there and to compete. This is where we want to be as Kaizer Chiefs.”
The acknowledgment of the challenge ahead reflects both realism and ambition. Chiefs have embarked on a rebuilding project that aims to restore the club’s status as one of the continent’s leading football institutions. Returning to the CAF group stages forms a crucial part of that vision.
Kaze praised the technical improvements within the squad, emphasising versatility in the attacking department and improved defensive structure. Players such as Etiosa Ighodaro and Glody Lilepo have already made an impression, combining power and pace to give Chiefs a multi-dimension threat that has revitalised their forward line.
The Confederation Cup group stage offers Chiefs a platform to further test this evolution in competitive environments across Africa. The tournament also presents significant financial benefits, with qualified teams guaranteed a minimum of $400,000 in CAF prize earnings, an important boost for squad depth and infrastructure.
Supporters have expressed renewed pride and enthusiasm. The club’s fanbase understands that the Confederation Cup journey offers an opportunity not just for success, but for growth, identity consolidation, and the revival of Amakhosi’s continental narrative.
As preparations intensify for the group stage draw, Chiefs will look to maintain momentum in domestic competitions. Squad rotation, match-sharpness, and careful injury management will be critical as the fixture load increases. Kaze and his technical team insist that continuous improvement remains the driving objective.
Kaizer Chiefs step into the group stages not as underdogs, but as ambitious competitors hungry to prove themselves against Africa’s most formidable sides. For Kaze, the message is clear: Chiefs belong on the continental stage, and the next chapter of their resurgence is just beginning.