“Not Our Strongest XI”: Da Cruz

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz has revealed that Amakhosi are still far from fielding their strongest starting line-up, insisting every player in his squad will have an important role to play this season following their impressive opening-day victory in the Betway Premiership.

Chiefs began the new league campaign with a convincing 3-1 win over Kruger United in Mpumalanga on Saturday, a result that sent them to the top of the Betway Premiership standings.

Although they are level on points with Orlando Pirates, AmaZulu and Sekhukhune United, Amakhosi occupy first place on goal difference.

Flavio Da Silva opened the scoring to continue the fine form that saw him finish as Chiefs’ leading scorer last season before Wandile Duba struck twice in the second half to seal all three points.

Despite the convincing victory, Da Cruz believes there is still plenty of room for improvement, revealing that the side which started against Kruger United is not yet his strongest possible XI.

“That’s very important because, at the moment, this is not our strongest starting eleven,” Da Cruz told SuperSport TV.

“Every player in the squad is important. The players who came on today made a big difference and helped us maintain a very high level.”

The French coach also outlined the style of football he wants his side to produce consistently throughout the season, emphasising the importance of controlling matches through possession.

“That’s what we expect in every game,” he added.

“But sometimes we need to manage the tempo better, slow the game down, keep the ball and control possession.

“It all depends on the tempo of the match. We will learn step by step and continue to improve.”

Chiefs will now turn their attention to next weekend’s MTN8 quarter-final against Golden Arrows at FNB Stadium before returning to Betway Premiership action, where Da Cruz will continue refining his side in search of what he believes will ultimately become his strongest starting XI.