Khumalo still proud after Kaizer Chiefs fall in Egypt

Kaizer Chiefs were denied the single point they needed to advance to the CAF Confederation Cup knockout stages.

Goals from Juan Alvina and Abdallah El Said proved decisive for the hosts, while Glody Lilepo’s header gave Kaizer Chiefs hope. For many supporters, the elimination created massive frustration and disbelief.

DOCTOR KHUMALO BACKS KAIZER CHIEFS

Meanwhile, club legend Doctor Khumalo chose a measured response, focusing less on frustration and more on resilience.

“I think to be honest, I’m very proud of the boys. They made it possible for themselves to be where they are now,” said Khumalo on SABC Sport.

Also read: Mokoena: Mofokeng growing into Pirates’ magician

While acknowledging the disappointment of conceding, he believed the tactical setup initially worked and that lapses in concentration, rather than structural weakness, proved costly.

“And as we’re looking, I thought the game plan was proper the first half, contained Zamalek 0-0. A lapse of concentration allowed 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 be pressurising Zamalek. I also have to give credit to Lilepo because he’s always giving you 100%.

“You score against the North African countries in a dead-ball situation. Clearly, you might have done something that they don’t have.

Also read: Miguel Cardoso praises Sundowns’ unity

Khumalo admitted he was encouraged by Kaizer Chiefs’ last performance, particularly the second half, because a team is only as good as its last game.

He felt their second-half display was their best, as they played with control, contained the opposition and ensured that Zamalek were not a real threat. For Khumalo, the remaining issues were simply footballing problems that could be fixed.

“Other than that, they shouldn’t be disappointed. Yes, it’s disappointing that they’re out, but they must just keep their heads up,” the Kaizer Chiefs legend concluded.