“Forget The Trauma”: Under-Fire da Cruz Faces Make-or-Break Carling Knockout Clash
Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz believes the quick turnaround ahead of Tuesday’s Carling Knockout Round of 16 clash against TS Galaxy is exactly what his side needs to heal from their painful CAF Confederation Cup exit.
Amakhosi suffered heartbreak on Friday night when Zambian outfit Red Arrows eliminated them 3-2 on penalties at Moses Mabhida Stadium following a goalless aggregate draw across two legs.
While Da Cruz took encouragement from his side winning the second leg in regulation time, Chiefs failed to capitalize from the penalty spot, allowing Red Arrows to advance to the group stages.
The Soweto giants now shift their focus to domestic silverware as they host TS Galaxy at FNB Stadium on Tuesday, determined to put their continental disappointment behind them.
“It is very good that we are playing quickly because we can switch focus directly to the next game,” said Da Cruz, who faces increasing scrutiny at Naturena. “In my mind, the most important fixture is always the next one. We have to qualify for the next round of the Carling Knockout.”
Da Cruz pointed to a growing injury list—including goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner, who was ruled out on the eve of the Red Arrows clash—as a major factor behind their recent struggles.
Despite the setback, Chiefs Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr. issued a public statement on Sunday reaffirming management’s backing for the French tactician and his technical team.
“As a club, we would like to reaffirm our full support for, and confidence in, the head coach and the entire technical team,” Motaung Jr said in a statement on Sunday.
“They continue to have our trust as they lead the implementation of a football philosophy and development pathway that we firmly believe will bring sustainable success.
“Their professionalism, work ethic, and commitment to improving the team every day remain irreproachable. The team is fighting hard in every game to uphold a high standard of performance, and yesterday [Friday], despite the result and the injuries we carry, that warrior spirit was visible on the field.”
However, with Amakhosi winless in their last five matches across all competitions, failure to secure a quarter-final spot at the Calabash on Tuesday will further intensify the pressure on Da Cruz’s tenure.
Elsewhere in Carling Knockout action, Golden Arrows became the first side to book their place in the quarter-finals after thrashing Chippa United at King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday.
They were joined in the last eight by Siwelele, who defeated Polokwane City 4-3 on penalties following a 0-0 draw, thanks to two crucial saves from goalkeeper Jody February.
