Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
ZIMBABWEAN champions Scottland suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to South African giants Kaizer Chiefs in the Toyota Cup at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium on Sunday, but delivered an encouraging performance ahead of their maiden CAF Champions League campaign.
Although the result did not go their way, the Toyota Cup provided the kind of high-level test Scottland were seeking as they continue preparations for continental football.
Coach Norman Mapeza rotated his squad, giving both new signings and experienced players valuable game time against one of South Africa’s biggest clubs.
After trailing 1-0 at half-time, Scottland dominated the second half and created several scoring opportunities. Veteran forward Knowledge Musona came closest to levelling the scores when his stoppage-time free-kick struck the upright.
Despite the defeat, Mapeza expressed satisfaction with his team’s display, saying the match highlighted the squad’s depth and provided a useful benchmark ahead of the CAF Champions League.
“I am happy with the squad depth. I think both teams showed we have enough numbers. Our second-half performance was good. We just need to be more clinical and more penetrative. Playing outside your league is important because it helps you gauge where you are. As a coach, I have been in the Champions League before and I know what is required,” he said.
Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz also praised Scottland’s performance, saying the Zimbabwean champions demonstrated their quality.
“They have a good team. They dominated us for most of the game and we had to sit back. With a favourable draw, they can compete well in the Champions League,” he said.
Scottland will now return home to resume their Castle Lager Premier Soccer League campaign before turning their attention to their historic CAF Champions League debut next month.
