Chiefs players struck down by food poisoning before CAF game

Kaizer Chiefs coach Khalil Ben Youssef has revealed the disastrous preparation that preceded his side’s crucial CAF Confederation Cup match, disclosing that five players were struck by a severe stomach bug hours before kickoff against AS Simba.

The Glamour Boys played to a goalless draw against the DRC-based side on Saturday in the first-leg of the Second Preliminary Round at the TP Mazembe Stadium in Lubumbashi, leaving the tie delicately poised ahead of next week’s return leg at Dobsonville Stadium.

While the pitch conditions were a known factor, Ben Youssef dropped a bombshell post-match, pointing to the team’s hotel food as the source of a widespread illness that threatened to derail their continental ambitions.

The Chiefs Stomach Bug Ordeal

Ben Youssef praised his squad’s fighting spirit, noting that several key players were far from 100% fit.

“I have to say congratulations to our players, they woke up with diarrhoea and vomiting before the match,” Ben Youssef stated. “I don’t know what happened with the food.”

The coach confirmed the gravity of the situation, adding that five players were severely affected.

“Five of them were in a critical situation, and we were not sure if they could play, but I have to say congratulations to them, even though they were not 100% ready, but they fought for the team and took a risk with us.”

Despite the setback, Chiefs managed to create chances. Khanyisa Mayo rattled the woodwork just before the break, and a late Mfundo Vilakazi free-kick was fingertipped over the bar.

However, the illness may explain why substitute Ashley Du Preez fired wide from close range after an excellent pass from Bafana Bafana star Mduduzi Shabalala.

The coach also mentioned a contributing injury to Glody Lilepo, who insisted on playing before being substituted in the 65th minute. “He got a small injury on his ankle, but he decided to play and fight for the team,” Ben Youssef said, explaining the introduction of Du Preez, who failed to convert his late opportunity.

Chiefs will now regroup for the second leg in Soweto, hoping for a full-strength squad and a more favourable result to secure their passage into the group stages.