Kaizer Chiefs Shift Focus to CAF Confederation Cup After Nedbank Cup Exit, Says Cedric Kaze

Kaizer Chiefs assistant coach Cedric Kaze has outlined the club’s immediate plan following their Nedbank Cup elimination, confirming that full attention has now shifted to the CAF Confederation Cup as the Soweto giants prepare for a crucial Group D fixture later this month.

Chiefs were knocked out of the Nedbank Cup on Wednesday after a 2–1 defeat to Stellenbosch FC, a result that raised questions around team selection and squad rotation. Speaking after the match, Kaze acknowledged that player fatigue and necessary rotation played a role in the outcome.

Kaizer Chiefs started the match with an unusually defensive setup, deploying five defenders—Inacio Miguel, Aden McCarthy, Given Msimango, Paseka Mako, and Thabiso Monyane. At the same time, several in-form attacking players, including Glody Lilepo and Lebohang Maboe, were left on the bench.

According to Kaze, the decision was influenced by workload management rather than a lack of trust in the starting XI.

“With the kilometres the data shows, you have to do the rotations. With all these trips as well, I’d say that the rotation is a must,” Kaze explained.
“With that said, the players who started are Kaizer Chiefs players and they are supposed to play.”

His comments suggest the technical team is closely monitoring physical data as the club balances domestic fixtures with continental commitments.

Chiefs now turn their focus to the CAF Confederation Cup, where they face Egyptian side Al Masry on Sunday, 16 February, at Peter Mokaba Stadium (kick-off at 15:00).

The match carries significant weight. Chiefs and Al Masry are both on seven points in Group D, just one point behind leaders Zamalek, with two group matches remaining. A positive result would place Amakhosi in a strong position to advance to the knockout stages.

Kaze stressed the importance of mental reset and tactical clarity ahead of the encounter.

“We have to look forward. Sunday is approaching quickly with a massive game in the Confederation Cup,” he said.
“We have to put our heads straight and have the right mentality to play against Al Masry.”

With the Nedbank Cup now out of reach, continental success takes on added importance for Kaizer Chiefs. The Confederation Cup not only represents a chance for silverware, but also an opportunity to restore confidence and momentum after a mixed domestic campaign.

The coming fixture will test squad depth, tactical discipline, and the club’s ability to respond under pressure—factors that could define Chiefs’ 2026 continental journey.