Velebayi: ‘Don’t Concede First’ as Chiefs Plot Egyptian Smash-and-Grab
Kaizer Chiefs winger Asanele Velebayi has spoken candidly about his emotions ahead of what will be the biggest assignment of his young career — a CAF Confederation Cup Group D showdown away to Al Masry in Suez this Sunday.
The 22-year-old, who only recently joined Amakhosi from Cape Town Spurs, is embarking on his first-ever trip on the continent. Although he made his Chiefs debut in the CAF Confederation Cup — coming on as a substitute in the 3–1 win over AS Simba at Dobsonville — this will be his first taste of hostile away territory in African club competition.
Velebayi admits the magnitude of the occasion has made him feel “a bit nervous,” but says the calm heads around him are easing the pressure.
“It’s a huge moment for me — my first time travelling in Africa, going to Egypt,” he said. “I won’t lie, I’m a bit nervous. The Egyptian league is very strong, and we know how tough it is to play there. But the experienced guys like Bruce Bvuma and others who’ve played in Africa are guiding me. I trust them completely.”
With Chiefs stepping into a demanding group that includes Al Masry, Zamalek and Zesco United, Velebayi says discipline will be key to a positive start.
“Our first priority is not to concede. Of course we want the three points, but keeping it tight away from home gives us a chance. A clean sheet would put us in a good space.”
The winger also revealed how Chiefs have been analysing their Egyptian opponents all week — and he believes the Green Eagles are not far off the level of continental giants Al Ahly.
“We’ve been watching Al Masry’s matches. They’re a top side, honestly on the same level as Al Ahly in terms of quality. It won’t be easy, but we’ve prepared well.”
Chiefs midfielder Lebo Maboe echoed those sentiments, detailing the structure Amakhosi expect to face in Suez.
“Al Masry use a diamond midfield, aggressive wingbacks and two strikers who move a lot,” Maboe explained. “We’ll need to be sharp and disciplined, but we back ourselves.”
Velebayi’s rise has been rapid. Months ago, he was facing life in the ABC Motsepe League after Spurs’ relegation. Now, after earning a dream move to Naturena, he stands on the brink of a continental debut.
He could even start on Sunday due to injuries to Glody Lilepo and Gastón Sirino, with the youngster already showing flashes of quality in his only appearance so far.
For a boy who began playing in the streets of Phillipi before joining Ajax Cape Town at just 11 years old, this moment feels like destiny.
“When I found out I was joining Chiefs, I called my mother immediately,” he said. “It has always been my dream. Now I want to make the most of this opportunity.”
With nerves, belief, and one of South Africa’s biggest clubs behind him, Velebayi will walk into Suez Stadium ready for the challenge of African football’s unforgiving away nights.