Kaizer Motaung Jr Breaks Silence on Kaizer Chiefs’ First-Team Situation After CAF Exit

Kaizer Chiefs sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jr has issued a statement addressing the current state of affairs at the club’s first team following their disappointing exit from the CAF Confederation Cup.

Motaung Jr acknowledged the frustration among supporters, players and other stakeholders after the South African giants failed to progress beyond the second preliminary round of the continental competition. However, he reaffirmed the club’s confidence in head coach Fernando da Cruz and his technical team, insisting that the setback would not change the club’s long-term plans.

In the statement released on Saturday, October 24, 2026, Motaung Jr said the club understood the disappointment surrounding the result but urged everyone associated with Kaizer Chiefs to maintain perspective as the team continues its campaign.

“Following our unfortunate CAF Confederation Cup result, we understand and share the disappointment felt by our supporters, players, staff, and all stakeholders connected to Kaizer Chiefs,” he stated.

Chiefs were eliminated by Zambian side Red Arrows after the tie was decided by a penalty shootout. The Amakhosi had won the second leg 1-0 at Moses Mabhida Stadium, levelling the aggregate score at 1-1, but ultimately lost 3-2 on penalties.

The early continental exit increased scrutiny of Da Cruz and his technical team, particularly after the club had also suffered disappointment in the MTN8 competition.

Despite the pressure, Motaung Jr made it clear that the club’s management remained committed to the current technical team and its football philosophy.

“As a Club, we would like to reaffirm our full support for, and confidence in, the Head Coach and the entire technical team,” he said.

He added that the club believed the work being done would deliver sustainable success, highlighting the importance of consistency, resilience and a clear sporting strategy.

Motaung Jr also acknowledged the effort shown by the players during the match against Red Arrows, noting that injuries had affected the team but that their determination remained visible.

The sporting director further explained that the club would continue to assess performances, identify areas requiring improvement and make decisions based on careful analysis rather than reacting emotionally to disappointing results.

He stressed that the club remained committed to its objectives both domestically and on the continent.

Addressing supporters, Motaung Jr thanked them for their continued loyalty and urged them to remain united behind the team during the difficult period.

“Now is the time for unity, not division,” he said, expressing confidence that the foundations being established would eventually produce the success supporters expect.

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