Chiefs return to continental competition for the first time since reaching the CAF Champions League final in 2021, and Miguel insists the character they developed during the qualifiers will be their biggest weapon.

Read: Ndamane reflects on his journey of growth following Kaizer Chiefs stint

Amakhosi open their Group D campaign against Egypt’s Al Masry at Borg El Arab Stadium on 23 November, before facing Zesco United and Zamalek in what many predict will be one of the toughest groups in the competition.

For Miguel, the foundation of Chiefs’ campaign will not simply be talent, but temperament.

“People see the results, but they don’t see what we went through to get here,” the defender said, as quoted by Sowetan.

“Angola and DR Congo tested our resolve in ways we didn’t expect. Those experiences showed us that we can survive difficult environments and still compete.”

Chiefs had to overcome Kabuscorp and AS Simba to reach the groups, but the challenges extended beyond football. In the DRC, several players reportedly fell ill after consuming contaminated food before the first leg against AS Simba. Miguel believes that ordeal bonded the squad and sharpened their focus.

“Those moments toughened us mentally. We realised that competing in Africa isn’t only about football – it’s about adapting, staying united and staying calm under pressure,” he said.

While Miguel embraces the underdog narrative, he maintains that Chiefs are capable of imposing themselves against Africa’s elite. However, he stressed the importance of strategy: dominate at home, survive away.

“In the group stages, the smart teams go far. At home, we must win. Away, we must be disciplined and make sure we don’t return empty-handed,” the defender added.

With adversity behind them and big tests ahead, Miguel says Chiefs are ready to show not just their size, but their strength of character.