Chiefs embrace ‘suffering’ mentality ahead of defining Zamalek clash in the CAF Confederation Cup

By Velile Mnyandu
14th February 2026

As Kaizer Chiefs face a crucial CAF Confederation Cup test when they take on Zamalek in their final Group D clash, defender Zitha Kwinika says they are prepared to suffer for a positive result.

The two teams will play at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium in Ismailia. Amakhosi lead the group with 10 points, two ahead of Zamalek, and only need a draw to qualify for the quarterfinals. The hosts, however, must win to be certain of progression.

"It is a very important game for us. I think we know what's at stake, and we are ready for that. We are definitely going to do what is good for us, which is to win.

"Every team is dangerous at home, so we have to be aware of that and understand that at times we will suffer. We need to be strong in those moments, but with the quality that we have, we are going to compete," said Kwinika

READ: Itumeleng Khune backs Kaizer Chiefs to clinch CAF Confed Cup KO spot

Chiefs’ journey in the CAF Confederation Cup group stages this season started in Egypt when they lost to Al Masry 2-1, and they were then held to a one-all draw at home by Zamalek. Kaze says lack of experience at this level was behind their slow start, but they have since picked up and won their last three matches.

In a sign that Amakhosi are looking to use their pace in this game, possibly playing on the counter, they brought Ashley du Preez to the pre-match press conference yesterday. The 28-year-old striker, who last played in November, says they are not in Egypt to sit back and play for a draw.

"For me, it's going to be a big game. As Kaizer Chiefs, we are not coming here for a draw, and I don't think we are going to go out tomorrow and sit back and allow the team to come at us and hurt us. We are coming here to collect all three points," said Du Preez

After their 1-0 loss to Zesco United last weekend, Zamalek were back in action in the Egyptian Premier League, and they beat Smouha 1-0 to maintain their second spot and remain four points behind log leaders and Fagrie Lakay’s Ceramica Cleopatra with a game in hand after 15 matches played. Kaze doesn’t think their opponent’s hectic schedule will be an advantage.