Amakhosi were knocked out 5-4 on penalties by Stellenbosch FC at a packed DHL Stadium on Sunday after a goalless 120 minutes. Sage Stephens emerged as the hero for Stellies, saving Dillan Solomons' sudden-death spot-kick to seal the victory and crush Amakhosi's hopes.
It was bitter disappointment for Chiefs, who walked off the pitch with heads down. The loss also saw Chiefs join Mamelodi Sundowns, who were eliminated by Marumo Gallants the day before, as big-name teams falling to penalties over the weekend.
"I'm truly disappointed. There's nothing more we could do, we tried our best, but luck wasn't on our side," the Mthethwa told SuperSport TV after the match.
"I want to apologise to our fans. I know how much they wanted us to win. We really tried."
The 30-year-old, part of last season's Nedbank Cup-winning squad, stressed that Chiefs are now focused on defending that trophy and improving in the league. And called on fans to remain loyal and supportive.
"We will try again in the Nedbank Cup and keep pushing in the league. What's done is done," he said.
"Please don't give up on us. Be patient. We never go onto the pitch to lose, but this is part of football."
Siwelele FC booked their place in the Carling Knockout quarter-finals after edging Polokwane City in a penalty shoot-out following a goalless contest through 120 minutes on Saturday evening.
Golden Arrows became the first team to book their place in the Carling Knockout quarter-finals after thrashing Chippa United 4-0 at King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Mandla Ncikazi has credited Orlando Pirates for playing a significant role in his development as a coach, insisting that maintaining good relationships helped pave the way for his return to Golden Arrows.
Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has challenged his players to believe they can end the club's 31-year wait for a second CAF Champions League title after securing their place in the group stages.
