Despite a slight wobble in recent matches, Kaizer Chiefs are close to securing CAF Confederation Cup qualification, needing just five more points from their final three league fixtures to guarantee third place in the Betway Premiership. The Amakhosi’s 1-1 draw with Mamelodi Sundowns on Wednesday kept them firmly in control of their destiny, and a victory in Sunday’s trip to Sekhukhune would put them within touching distance of the continental berth. Midfielder Siphesihle Ndlovu will miss that clash through suspension after picking up a booking against Sundowns, but the team’s overall cushion remains intact.
Chiefs built their strong position with five consecutive wins between 15 March and 15 April, but the recent run has been less convincing, yielding only three points from a possible twelve. Losses to Siwelele and draws with Polokwane, Orlando Pirates, and Sundowns have slowed the momentum, yet the math still favors the Soweto giants. With fourth-placed AmaZulu trailing, five more points from the remaining matches would give Kaizer Chiefs an unassailable lead for third spot, ensuring CAF Confederation Cup football next season.
Wednesday’s draw also did Orlando Pirates a significant favor, as Chiefs took points off the title-chasing Brazilians, keeping the championship race on a knife-edge. Sundowns battled back from a goal down to earn a point while playing over 25 minutes with ten men, meaning they may view the result as a point gained rather than two dropped. For Chiefs, the focus now shifts solely to finishing the job against Sekhukhune and securing the qualification that has been within grasp for weeks.