Kaizer Chiefs legend Doctor Khumalo has shared his thoughts on the club’s exit from the CAF Confederation Cup following an away defeat to Zamalek SC.
Amakhosi suffered a 2–1 defeat at the hands of the Egyptian giants at Borg El Arab Stadium in Alexandria, failing to earn at least one point that could have secured them a spot in the next round.
Glody Lilepo scored the only goal for Chiefs, while Juan Alvina and Abdallah El Said found the net for Zamalek.
Khumalo said he is proud of the team despite the defeat, adding that they fought hard, particularly in the second half, where they contained Zamalek and managed to score.
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He felt it was just “footballing problems” that worked against them, saying they should not be disappointed after putting up such a fight.
“I think to be honest, I’m very proud of the boys and they made it possible for themselves to be where they are now,” said Khumalo on SABC Sport.
“And as we’re looking, I thought the game plan was proper the first half, contained Zamalek 0-0 and a lapse of concentration allowing silly goals because if you were to ask me Zamalek was not that much of a threat.
“And for them to have a fighting spirit and score that goal, it shows that they do have players that are capable of changing the scene of the game and the nature of the game.
“It was just so unfortunate that they picked up so late for them to to be pressurising Zamalek and I also have to give credit to Lilepo because he’s always giving you 100%.
“You score against the North African countries on a dead ball situation. Clearly you might have done something that they don’t have.
“And the unfortunate part here, I mean you can see Al Masry, 10 points against Chiefs’ 10 points. So, clearly they fought these boys. The reason why I’m saying I’m happy with the last performance which is the second half, it’s you are as good as your last game.
“So, their last second half was the best. They played very well, they contained them and Zamalek were not a threat. Just footballing problems there and there for them to fix that.
“Other than that, they shouldn’t be disappointed. Yes, it’s disappointing that they’re out, but they must just keep their heads up.”