Kaizer Chiefs and Stellenbosch FC in the pound seats with Caf Confed Cup

By securing their places in the group stages of the CAF Confederation Cup, Kaizer Chiefs and Stellenbosch FC are each guaranteed a substantial payout of R6.9 million.

The stakes are higher as teams compete for further financial rewards by finishing in the top two of their respective four-team groups. Their earnings could soar to R9.5 million, allowing them to further invest in their playing resources and facilities.

Success in these stages will give a chance to reach the quarter-finals, igniting hopes for deeper tournament runs and further substantial rewards.

Their participation marks a welcome return to continental competition for both clubs that fly the SA flag in the tournament.

Chiefs, once a pillar of South African football, progressed through the preliminary rounds with determined but hard-fought victories over Angolan side Kabuscorp and the Democratic Republic of Congo’s AS Simba. This year, they approach the competition with renewed ambition and a focus on rebuilding their stature on the continental stage.

Their return to continental football follows their 2021 CAF Champions League final appearance. Under then-coach Gavin Hunt, Chiefs were narrowly beaten by Pitso Mosimane’s Al Ahly, with Hunt replaced by Stuart Baxter for the gold medal match.

Meanwhile, Stellenbosch FC, who reached the semi-finals in last season’s tournament, also confirmed their progress by defeating Equatorial Guinea’s 15 de Agosto.

Eager to build on last year’s performance, in which they narrowly missed the final after losing to Fadlu Davids’ Simba SC, Stellenbosch aims to seize this opportunity to surpass their previous achievements and further establish their presence in African football.

The stakes are high, with the ultimate winner of the tournament in line for R34.5 million, while the runner-up will secure R17.2 million. Those reaching the semi-finals will each take home R12.9 million, making every match critical in the fight for continental glory.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF), under the leadership of President Patrice Motsepe, has taken commendable steps to ensure that clubs participating in continental competition are well-supported, creating an environment conducive to the growth and success of African clubs.

Chiefs and Stellenbosch are preparing to reclaim their spots among Africa’s elite football clubs. Stakeholders and fans alike are eager to witness how these teams will navigate the challenges ahead in their quests for continental success.