Kaizer Chiefs coach, Khalil Ben Youssef, is drawing positives from the narrow 2-1 defeat against Al Masry in their CAF Confederation Cup group stage opener. Despite the loss at the Suez Stadium, the coach believes the performance offered encouraging signs for the rest of the campaign.
Speaking after the match, Ben Youssef emphasized the importance of learning quickly in a competition that demands absolute focus. He noted that many players were experiencing this level of continental football for the first time, highlighting the differences between the CAF Confederation Cup and the PSL.
"This was the first time that more than 80 percent of our players experienced this level of continental football," he said. "It’s very different from the PSL. Here you must be more focused, more aggressive. At this level, matches are decided by very small details. If you lose concentration for even one second, you can concede.”
Despite the disappointment of the result, the coach was proud of the team's effort and felt they deserved at least a point. He acknowledged the need to learn from their mistakes and improve moving forward.
"Looking at our performance, we deserved a minimum of a draw," he explained. "But we have to learn from our mistakes. We’ll analyse the game, look at the positives and the negatives, and continue to work.”
Tough Home Fixture Against Zamalek SC Looms
The focus now shifts to a crucial home game against Egyptian giants Zamalek SC. Coach Ben Youssef is aware of the challenge ahead, recognizing Zamalek as one of the best teams in Africa with vast experience in continental competitions.
"Zamalek are one of the best teams in Africa with huge experience in continental competition. It will be a tough game, but if we want to qualify, we cannot afford any mistakes at home. We need to win our home matches and collect more points away,” he insisted.
Returning to Polokwane a Boost
The coach believes that returning to Polokwane will provide a boost for the team. He emphasized the importance of playing in familiar surroundings with the support of their fans.