Four Chiefs key players ruled out of crucial Al Masry CAF tie

Kaizer Chiefs have landed in Egypt ahead of Sunday’s crucial CAF Confederation Cup Group D opener against Al Masry, but co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze’s plans have been rocked by the absence of four key players, severely depleting the team’s attacking options.

The Soweto giants are looking to make a statement in Africa’s second-tier club competition, starting their group phase journey with a challenging trip to Egypt. However, the club confirmed that three forwards—Glody Lilepo, Gaston Sirino, and Khanyisa Mayo—have not travelled with the squad.

The game will be staged at the New Suez Stadium in Suez, with kickoff set for 18:00 on Sunday.

Striking Options Thin Out For Chiefs

The most concerning absentee is Congolese striker Glody Lilepo, who has been ruled out with an injury, having missed their last domestic fixture against Orbit College FC. His absence, combined with the continued fitness battle of Khanyisa Mayo, leaves Amakhosi significantly blunt up front.

The Travelling Squad 🇿🇦🛫🇪🇬#Amakhosi4Life #TotalEnergiesCAFCC #KCOneAfrica pic.twitter.com/qkWLSJ2PSd

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) November 20, 2025

Adding to the woes, midfielder Gaston Sirino is suspended, robbing the squad of another creative and experienced African campaigner. Centre-back Aden McCarthy is also among the players left behind in Johannesburg.

The missing players represent a massive loss in continental experience, something Chiefs will desperately need against tough North African opposition.

Lilepo is a proven force in CAF competitions, having scored five goals in just seven games for Al Hilal Omdurman during the 2022/23 Champions League.

Sirino was a consistent star for Mamelodi Sundowns in the Champions League. Mayo also boasts continental experience from his time with CR Belouizdad.

However, there is a silver lining with the timely return of defender Paseka Mako from injury, bolstering the backline. Furthermore, the squad retains a core of players with proven continental pedigree, including the likes of Inacio Miguel, Lebohang Maboe, and a handful of survivors from the 2020/21 CAF Champions League final run.

The group stage debut against Al Masry, followed by a demanding schedule that includes heavyweights Zamalek, will be a true test of Chiefs’ depth and ambition as they look to build on their past success in Africa.

Kaizer Chiefs Travelling Squad:

Goalkeepers: Brandon Petersen, Bruce Bvuma

Defenders: Thabiso Monyane, Dillon Solomons, Bradley Cross, Paseka Mako, Given Msimango, Zitha Kwinika, Inacio Miguel

Midfielders: Sibongiseni Mthethwa, Thabo Cele, George Matlou, Siphesihle Ndlovu, Lebohang Maboe, Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, Mduduzi Shabalala, Mfundo Vilakazi, Asanele Velebayi, Pule Mmodi

Forwards: Etiosa Ighodaro, Ashley Du Preez, Flavio Da Silva