Red Arrows have reached the CAF Confederation Cup group stage for the first time in the club’s history after defeating South African giants Kaizer Chiefs 3–2 on penalties at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
The Zambian side held their nerve in a dramatic shootout on Thursday night after losing the second leg 1–0, with Bradley Cross scoring for Chiefs to level the tie at 1–1 on aggregate.
Goalkeeper Charles Kalumba was the hero for Red Arrows, producing a series of crucial saves during the match before saving a penalty in the shootout to help his side secure a historic qualification.
Kalumba’s most important intervention in normal time came in the 83rd minute, when he denied a Chiefs player in a one-on-one situation to keep Arrows in contention and force the tie into a penalty shootout.
The goalkeeper’s composure under pressure proved decisive as the Airmen overcame their hosts in Durban, delivering a landmark result for Zambian club football.
The Airmen also showed attacking intent in the first half, with Ackim Mumba, Eliya Mandanji and Zephaniah Phiri among those who threatened the hosts.
Red Arrows’ qualification marks a significant milestone for the club and Zambian football, coming on the eve of the country’s Independence Day celebrations.
After surviving a difficult evening against one of South Africa’s most recognisable clubs, the Airmen can now look forward to competing in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage for the first time in their history.
Full-time: Kaizer Chiefs 1–0 Red Arrows
Aggregate: 1–1
Penalty shootout: Kaizer Chiefs 2–3 Red Arrows
🇿🇲✈️ Red Arrows are through to the group stage.
