Red Arrows stun Kaizer Chiefs on penalties to reach TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup Group Stage

Zambia’s Red Arrows eliminated South African giants Kaizer Chiefs from the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup 2026/27 after winning 3-2 on penalties in their Second Preliminary Round return leg in Durban on Friday.

Chiefs won the match 1-0 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium through Bradley Cross’s second-half header, but the result only levelled the tie at 1-1 on aggregate after Red Arrows had won the first leg by the same scoreline in Zambia.

The visitors held their nerve in the ensuing penalty shootout to secure a memorable qualification for the group stage and condemn the South African side to an early continental exit.

Cross struck in the 65th minute to give Chiefs hope of completing a comeback, but the hosts failed to convert several opportunities to win the tie before the final whistle.

The result represents a significant achievement for Red Arrows, who arrived in Durban with a narrow advantage following Alassane Diarra's winner in the first leg.

Chiefs, under coach Fernando da Cruz, dominated possession and created several chances as they attempted to overturn the deficit in front of their home supporters.

The hosts threatened as early as the 11th minute when Thulani Mabaso forced the Red Arrows goalkeeper into a save with a powerful effort.

Pule Mmodi later missed a promising headed opportunity at the far post, while Wandile Duba was unable to capitalise after breaking through on goal.

Red Arrows adopted a disciplined defensive approach, absorbing pressure and seeking opportunities to counterattack as the home side struggled to turn their dominance into goals.

Chiefs continued to control proceedings after the interval, prompting Da Cruz to introduce Mfundo Vilakazi before the hour mark in an attempt to add greater attacking impetus.

The substitution proved decisive when Vilakazi delivered a free-kick that Cross headed home in the 65th minute to restore parity over the two legs.

With momentum firmly behind the hosts, Chiefs pressed for a second goal that would have sent them through without the need for penalties.

Substitute Ethan Chislett helped create an opportunity for Mduduzi Shabalala, but the midfielder directed his effort straight at the goalkeeper.

Chislett also set up another chance for Velebayi, who sent his attempt over the crossbar as Chiefs continued to waste opportunities.

Red Arrows responded by introducing Ricky Banda and Norris Kalamba as they sought to regain control and withstand the increasing pressure.

The Zambian side successfully protected the aggregate draw, forcing the tie into a penalty shootout.

Red Arrows then prevailed 3-2 from the spot to complete one of the notable results of the Second Preliminary Round and secure their place among the 16 clubs competing in the group stage.

For Chiefs, the defeat brings a disappointing end to their continental campaign despite their improved performance in the return fixture.

Red Arrows, meanwhile, advance to the group stage of the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup 2026/27, which is scheduled to begin in November.