Da Cruz relishes Downs showdown in Carling semis

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz is relishing the prospect of facing Mamelodi Sundowns in the Carling Knockout semifinals. The match will be a significant test for his team, but Da Cruz believes it will provide an opportunity for growth. Chiefs secured their spot in the semifinals by defeating Siwelele 2-1 at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Sunday. Asanele Velebayi scored the winning goal for Chiefs, his first since joining the club in August last year.

The match against Sundowns will be an away game for Chiefs, although the exact date and venue have not been confirmed by the league. The semifinals are expected to take place after the current Fifa break. Da Cruz acknowledged that his team has struggled with consistency in the league, having played five draws so far. He believes reaching the Carling Knockout semifinals will boost their morale and put them on a positive trajectory.

Chiefs' journey to the semifinals was not without its challenges. Siyabonga Ndebele put Siwelele ahead early in the first half, but Wandile Duba equalized for Amakhosi on the stroke of halftime. Mduduzi Shabalala missed a spot-kick seven minutes before Duba converted his. Da Cruz expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, highlighting their growth and mindset.

The coach emphasized that winning is essential for building confidence and momentum. He noted that the team did not get the results they expected at the start of the season, but is happy with their progress. Da Cruz's team has missed two chances of winning a cup this season, being eliminated in the quarterfinals of the MTN8 in August and failing to make it to the CAF Confederation Cup group stages last month.

Da Cruz is eager to use the match against Sundowns as a catalyst for growth. He stated that his team needs this type of game to develop and that they will play to qualify for the final. The coach's focus is on preparing his team for the challenge ahead, and he is confident that they will rise to the occasion.

The Carling Knockout semifinals will provide a significant test for Chiefs, but Da Cruz is optimistic about their chances. He believes that the team's growth and mindset will serve them well in the match against Sundowns. The coach's emphasis on growth and development suggests that he is taking a long-term view, focusing on building a strong team rather than seeking immediate results.

The match against Sundowns will be a crucial test for Chiefs, and Da Cruz is preparing his team for the challenge. With a focus on growth and development, the coach is confident that his team will make a positive impact in the semifinals. The team's performance will be closely watched, as they seek to build on their momentum and make a deep run in the competition.

Key points

• Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz views the Carling Knockout semifinals as an opportunity for his team to grow and develop.