POLOKWANE – The new Peter Mokaba Stadium came alive last Sunday as Kaizer Chiefs hosted Al Masry in a CAF Confederation Cup group clash, with both sides chasing a place in the quarter-finals.

The match started at a high tempo, with the teams moving quickly from defence to attack in the opening minutes. As the first half progressed, Amakhosi began to take control, pinning the visitors back for long spells.

Their pressure paid off in the 31st minute when Chiefs were awarded a penalty, although protests from Al Masry caused a brief delay. Once play resumed, Flavio Da Silva converted in the 39th minute to give the home side the lead.

Al Masry pushed hard for an equaliser before the break, but Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen produced a series of important saves to keep them at bay.

The visitors came out with renewed energy in the second half and were rewarded in the 57th minute when Abderrahim Deghmoum levelled the score. Chiefs responded almost immediately, with Aden McCarthy firing home from close range just three minutes later to restore the lead.

Amakhosi had chances to extend their advantage but failed to capitalise. In the closing stages, they managed the game well, keeping possession and limiting Al Masry’s opportunities until the final whistle.

The victory sees Kaizer Chiefs move to the top of group D with 10 points. They now turn their attention to their final group match against Zamalek in Cairo this Sunday.