Motaung Jr fires up Chiefs ahead of CAF ‘group of death’ opener

Kaizer Chiefs sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jr has expressed pride and optimism as the club prepares to kick off its first-ever CAF Confederation Cup group phase campaign this Sunday in Egypt against Al Masry.

The Soweto giants travelled to Egypt this week, ready for the tough Group D opener at the Suez Stadium. Motaung Jr. confirmed the club’s continental ambition, stating that African competition is exactly where Amakhosi intends to be.

“I’m very excited. This is the African stage. It’s where we want to be,” said Motaung Jr prior to the team’s departure to Egpyt on Wednesday.

The Group D Challenge For Chiefs

Chiefs find themselves in what has been dubbed the ‘group of death,’ facing two powerhouse Egyptian clubs, Al Masry and reigning champions Zamalek, alongside Zambian side Zesco United.

Motaung Jr. admitted the trip will present a severe test but believes the club’s thorough preparation during the recent FIFA International break will pay dividends.

“We’re expecting a tough test in Egypt, which is well known for its passion for football,” he said. “The technical staff have put the players through their paces. Our opposition have been thoroughly researched and analysed, so there is a positive feeling within the camp regarding the task at hand.”

Maximum Points Target

The importance of the opening fixtures is not lost on the Sporting Director. Following the Al Masry clash, Chiefs will immediately return home to host Zamalek in Polokwane just six days later on Saturday, 29 November.

Motaung Jr emphasized the need to lay down an immediate marker to their Group D rivals.

“Everyone in the group is playing to win and these are two very important games for us against tough opponents right at the start,” he noted. “But we believe we pose a significant threat ourselves and we are going out to get maximum points.”

The match between Al Masry and Kaizer Chiefs is scheduled for 18:00 (SAST) on Sunday, 23 November, in Egypt.