Kaizer Chiefs captain Brandon Petersen has exuded confidence ahead of a crucial CAF Confederation Cup clash, promising that the Amakhosi will overcome AS Simba of the Democratic Republic of Congo this Sunday to secure a coveted place in the group stages.
The Task at Hand
The decisive second leg of the final qualifying round is set to take place at the Dobsonville Stadium this Sunday at 15h00. The tie is delicately poised following a hard-fought goalless draw in the first leg played in Lubumbashi last weekend.
Read: Orlando Pirates’ CAF Champions League Dream Ends in Penalty Heartbreak
Petersen, who was officially confirmed as the club’s new skipper this week, believes that Chiefs’ home advantage and track record in turning around difficult ties will be the difference-maker.
“We know what’s at stake; we want to go to the group stages, and our minds are set on that target,” Petersen affirmed.
He drew on the team’s recent continental resilience as a blueprint for victory: “We came back from Angola after losing 1-0 [to Kabuscorp] and turned it around at home before winning on penalties.
Congo was a good experience, and getting a draw there was a positive result. I don’t see a reason we won’t go through.”
Confidence in Defensive Resilience
Despite Kaizer Chiefs’ well-documented struggles in attack this season, Petersen remains overwhelmingly positive about the team’s defensive strength, viewing it as the foundation for success against Simba.
“We’ve been solid at the back since the start of the season. It’s important we start strong, stamp our authority early, and make sure we don’t concede,” he stated.
The goalkeeper-captain believes that if the defence holds firm, the attacking breakthrough is inevitable: “Once our attackers regain confidence, the goals will come.”
Petersen’s personal goal is to inspire his side by leading from the back, ensuring a clean sheet that will give his forwards the platform they need to find the winner and complete the qualification mission.
Group Stage Awaits
Kaizer Chiefs are aiming to be among the final six teams to join an already strong lineup of confirmed participants in the 2025/26 CAF Confederation Cup group stage.
The teams that have already secured qualification are Azam FC from Tanzania, Zamalek SC from Egypt, CR Belouizdad from Algeria, Wydad AC from Morocco, ZESCO United from Zambia, AS Maniema from the Democratic Republic of Congo, USM Alger from Algeria, San Pedro from Ivory Coast, Singida Black Stars from Tanzania, and Olympique de Safi from Morocco.
Chiefs must secure a win—any victory will do—to avoid a penalty shootout and confirm their place among Africa’s elite. The high-stakes match kicks off tomorrow at 15h00 at the Dobsonville Stadium.