CAFCC: Kaizer Chiefs dealt blow ahead of Zamalek clash

Kaizer Chiefs have been dealt a huge blow ahead of their journey to play Zamalek in the CAF Confederation Cup Group D game on Saturday.

Amakhosi will be without utility defender Aden McCarthy, who is suspended for the epic clash following his third yellow card against Al Masry. Chiefs must also deal with the fact that Bradley Cross is out injured.

Next Kaizer Chiefs Match!

🏆#TotalEnergiesCAFCC
⚽️Zamalek SC vs. Kaizer Chiefs
👕First Team
🗓️Saturday 14 February 2026
🏟Suez Canal Authority Stadium, Ismailia
🕞18h00 SAST
📺SABC 2 & SuperSport 209#KCOneAfrica #Amakhosi4Life pic.twitter.com/BQMwaxOPVz

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) February 13, 2026

The 12-time Premiership champions are up against the White Knights at Suez Canal Authority Stadium where they will need just a point to qualify for the quarter-finals regardless of what happens in the other encounter between Al Masry and Zesco United.

Kaizer Chiefs have 10 points, two above Zamalek

Chiefs go into the game with a good record of three-match winning streak in the Confederation Cup, making the clash an expectant spectacle to anticipate.

Former Orlando Pirates defender, Paseka Mako and Nkanyiso Shinga are the likely candidates to start at left-back for Kaizer Chiefs.

Centre-back Inacio Miguel is also out of the game injured leaving Amakhosi coaches with Zitha Kinika and Given Msimango as the only natural options at the heart of defence.

Kaizer Chiefs have 10 points, two above Zamalek with Al Masry on seven and ZESCO United have garnered three.

Kaizer Chiefs travelling squad:

Goalkeepers: Brandon Petersen, Bruce Bvuma, Takalani Mazhamba

Defenders: Dillan Solomons, Zitha Kwinika, Paseka Mako, Thabiso Monyane, Given Msimango, Nkanyiso Shinga

Midfielders: Siphesihle Ndlovu, Lebohang Maboe, Thulani Mabaso, George Matlou, Mduduzi Shabalala, Mfundo Vilakazi, Gaston Sirino

Attackers: Glody Lilepo, Pule Mmodi, Asanele Velebayi, Wandile Duba, Ashley du Preez, Khanyisa Mayo, Flavio da Silva.

Kaizer Chiefs Face Defensive Selection Headache Ahead of Zamalek SC Clash in CAF Confederation Cup

Kaizer Chiefs have been dealt a significant setback ahead of their crucial CAF Confederation Cup Group D encounter against Zamalek SC on Saturday. The highly anticipated match will take place at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium, where Amakhosi need just a single point to secure qualification for the quarter-finals.

The Soweto giants will be without versatile defender Aden McCarthy, who is suspended after accumulating his third yellow card during the previous match against Al Masry SC. McCarthy’s absence is a considerable blow given his ability to operate across multiple defensive roles. His tactical flexibility has been a valuable asset for the Chiefs throughout the tournament.

Adding to the defensive concerns, Bradley Cross has been ruled out due to injury, further limiting the options available to the technical team. With both players unavailable, the coaching staff faces a challenging task in restructuring the backline for one of their most important fixtures of the season.

Qualification Scenario

Despite the setbacks, Kaizer Chiefs remain in a strong position in Group D. The 12-time Premiership champions currently sit at the top of the standings with 10 points, two ahead of Zamalek SC. Al Masry follow with seven points, while ZESCO United trail with three.

A draw against the White Knights will be enough to see Amakhosi advance to the quarter-finals, regardless of the outcome in the parallel fixture between Al Masry and ZESCO United. This mathematical advantage gives Chiefs some breathing room, but playing away in Egypt against a motivated Zamalek side presents its own challenges.

Strong Momentum in Africa

Chiefs head into the clash with confidence, having won their last three matches in the Confederation Cup. That winning streak has not only strengthened their position in the group but also boosted morale within the squad. Their improved performances on the continental stage suggest a team growing in belief and cohesion.

Zamalek, however, will be desperate for victory. Playing at home, the Egyptian giants know that a win could dramatically alter the group standings. The atmosphere at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium is expected to be intense, with home supporters eager to push their team toward qualification.

Defensive Adjustments Required

With McCarthy and Cross unavailable, former Orlando Pirates defender Paseka Mako and Nkanyiso Shinga are strong candidates to start at left-back. Both players bring experience and defensive discipline, but the reshuffle may affect overall balance at the back.

Further compounding the issue is the absence of centre-back Inacio Miguel, who is sidelined through injury. His unavailability leaves Zitha Kwinika and Given Msimango as the only natural central defensive options. The duo will carry significant responsibility in containing Zamalek’s attacking threats.