Khalil Ben Youssef hails Kaizer Chiefs’ grit after beating Zesco United in CAF Confederation Cup

Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef dedicated the team’s win over Zesco United to the players’ never-say-die attitude and the medical staff’s dedication during a tough, congested period for the team.

Chiefs beat Zesco 1–0 at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday, courtesy of Glody Lilepo’s first-half strike to momentarily move up to second in CAF Confederation Cup Group D with seven points after four matches.

While Chiefs collected all three points to firmly put themselves in contention for a knockout-round berth, their energy levels dipped in the second half, allowing Zesco back into the game and to threaten their lead. However, they held on thanks to some brilliant goalkeeping from Brandon Petersen.

Having played regularly and travelled frequently since the restart of the season earlier this year, Ben Youssef conceded that fatigue was evident against Zesco, which is why he credited everyone’s grit and determination for making the victory possible.

“It’s not me, but the players,” Ben Youssef said of the victory, during his post-match press media duties on SABC in Durban.

“We were outside our home (environment). We are always in camp, playing every two or three days. They promised before the game that they would give everything they had in their legs to win this match, so congratulations to them.”

The Morocco-born coach also praised the technical and medical staff for managing the heavy workload.

“Congratulations to our technical staff – Majdi Safi, the fitness coach, and doctor (Mohammed Moosajee) – for the victory,” Ben Youssef said. "I don’t think what they are doing is easy, but the way they are managing it (is commendable).

“You saw how we finished the game – we were so tired. But when the fighting spirit is in your heart and you play to win, then nothing can stop you.”

Chiefs have no time to rest and catch their breath. They will be back on the road to face Stellenbosch in the Nedbank Cup last-16 clash at DHL Stadium on Wednesday night (7pm kick-off). They need a win to keep their trophy defence alive.