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kaizer Chiefs booked their place in the CAF Confederation Cup group stages after a confident 3–1 victory over AS Simba at Dobsonville Stadium on 26 October 2025. Early goals gave the Soweto giants complete control, and they never looked back.
What Happened?
Etiosa Ighodaro smashed home a rebound in the 5th minute to spark the celebrations. Next, defender Zitha Kwinika found the top corner from a tight angle after a clever free kick by Mfundo Vilakazi.
The pressure kept mounting. Before the 30-minute mark, Glodly Lilepo powered in a header at the far post from a Vilakazi corner. With a dominant 3–0 lead, Amakhosi moved the ball with confidence and managed the tempo smoothly.
AS Simba responded with a tactical switch before halftime. The Chiefs also made changes as Lilepo picked up an injury and Pule Mmodi replaced him. Later, Asanele Velebayi made his debut, entering in the 65th minute.
Simba pulled one back late when Aiden McCarthy miscleared the ball into his own net. Yet, the Chiefs stayed composed and finished strong to secure the victory.
Official Response
Interim voices from the bench praised the early aggression.
“We controlled the game right from the start. The boys executed well,” said Kaizer Chiefs co-coach, Candid Kaze after the match.
Supporters inside Dobsonville roared their approval as the final whistle confirmed a safe passage to the next round.
Community Impact
Fans believe this win signals real progress. More matches in the group stages also mean more local excitement, higher attendance, and a boost for township football culture.
Local businesses near the venue — from food vendors to taxi operators — welcomed the strong turnout and expect even bigger days ahead.
