The AmaKhosi, who were beaten 1-0 in the first leg in Luanda, levelled the aggregate at 1-1 thanks to Makabi Lilepo's 40th-minute strike. The forward reacted quickest when Kabuscorp goalkeeper failed to hold Dillon Solomons' effort, drilling the ball into the net to lift the home supporters.
Chiefs, led by interim co-head coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, controlled possession for long spells but created few clear openings against Beto Bianchi's organised Kabuscorp side.
The visitors knew an away goal would have forced Chiefs to chase three, and they came close to snatching one when Brandon Petersen produced a superb save in the 73rd minute to keep the tie level.
The tension grew late on with a flare-up between the two sides in the closing minutes, while Chiefs were forced to hold firm during five minutes of stoppage time.
The tie went to penalties, where Chiefs showed composure from the spot. They scored all five of their attempts, while Kabuscorp faltered once to hand the South Africans a dramatic victory.
The result means Chiefs progress to the second preliminary round, where they will face either Djabal FC of Comoros or Tanzanian giants Simba SC.
For Chiefs, this was a test of resilience under pressure. Lilepo delivered the moment that swung momentum back their way, while Petersen's save ensured penalties remained an option. In the shootout, the squad's calm finishing proved decisive, sending the Soweto giants through in front of their jubilant supporters.
Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Joseph Malongoane has urged Amakhosi supporters to remain patient with co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, arguing that the pair needs time to understand the unique demands of South African football.
Kaizer Chiefs winger Asanele Velebayi says his early months at the club have been a steady, game-by-game learning process as he finds his feet in the top flight.
Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef has admitted his side continues to struggle in front of goal but insists the team is working hard to solve the problem ahead of Sunday’s clash with TS Galaxy in Mbombela.
Orlando Pirates captain Nkosinathi Sibisi is keeping his focus sharply on the Carling Knockout Cup title as his team tops the Betway Premiership table with 28 points after 12 games.
