Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz has expressed his determination to continue challenging for the league title despite a significant setback in the Soweto derby. The team suffered a 2-1 loss to Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium on Saturday, extending their winless streak in league derbies to seven matches. This defeat has made it more difficult for Chiefs to close the gap with the top teams, but Da Cruz remains optimistic about their chances.
The loss has left Chiefs 11 points behind second-placed Pirates, who are just a point behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns. Sundowns have played one more match than Pirates. Da Cruz attributed the team's struggles to a lack of experience and the absence of injured players. He believes that with the return of key players, Chiefs can achieve more consistency in their performances and turn their season around.
Several players have been sidelined by injuries this season, including Langelihle Phili, Khanyisa Mayo, Nkanyiso Shinga, and Siphesihle Ndlovu. Da Cruz emphasized that the league is a long journey, with 21 fixtures remaining, and expressed confidence that his team can recover and compete for the title. He acknowledged that Chiefs have played a lot of draws since the start of the season, which they could have won with better experience.
Da Cruz was critical of referee Luxolo Badi's decisions during the match. He argued that Pirates' first goal, scored by Yanela Mbuthuma, should have been ruled out for offside. Additionally, he believed that Bucs defender Lebone Seema should have been sent off. Da Cruz felt that these incidents significantly impacted the game's outcome and his team's chances of winning.
The coach also expressed disappointment with his team's performance in the second half, where they were less effective and tired towards the end. He attributed this to a lack of experience and fatigue, which allowed Pirates to create more opportunities and seal the win. Tshepang Moremi scored the winner for Pirates, while Pule Mmodi's goal was a consolation for Chiefs.
Da Cruz, who was coaching in the Soweto derby for the first time, acknowledged that his team should have killed off the game in the first half. He felt that they lacked efficiency and failed to capitalize on their chances, which could have changed the course of the match. Despite the setback, Da Cruz remains committed to his team's title ambitions.
The Soweto derby loss has put pressure on Chiefs to perform in the remaining matches. Da Cruz's team will need to regroup and find a way to overcome their injuries and improve their consistency. The coach's determination and the team's resilience will be crucial in their pursuit of the league title.
Key points
- Chiefs are 11 points behind second-placed Pirates in the league standings.
- Da Cruz believes the return of injured players will improve Chiefs' consistency.
- The Soweto derby loss extended Chiefs' winless streak in league derbies to seven matches.
