Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz expressed relief and satisfaction after his team's 3-0 win over TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout at FNB Stadium on Tuesday. The victory provides a much-needed boost in morale for the team, who will face their biggest rivals, Orlando Pirates, in the Betway Premiership at the same venue on Saturday. Da Cruz, however, was quick to admit that his team's performance was not their best this season.
Wandile Duba's hat-trick sealed the win for Amakhosi, helping the team snap their recent slump in form. The slump had seen them exit the Caf Confederation Cup at the hands of Zambian side Red Arrows at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday. Da Cruz acknowledged that his team had played better games before, but highlighted the importance of securing a win to boost their confidence.
Despite the win, Da Cruz was not pleased with his team's overall performance, stating that they had created better chances in previous games but failed to score. He emphasized that the team's recent form had been marred by bad luck, with the coach feeling that they deserved to win in some of their previous draws.
Hours after their elimination from the Confederation Cup, Amakhosi sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jnr reaffirmed the club's faith in Da Cruz via a statement. The French coach has since thanked Motaung for backing him amid the team's poor run of form. Da Cruz highlighted the importance of the management's support, stating that it was crucial for the team's success.
Da Cruz revealed that he meets with Motaung at least once every three or four months to discuss the team's progress and project. He emphasized that the board and sporting director are always present to see the commitment of the coaching staff. Da Cruz expressed gratitude for the confidence shown in him and his technical panel by the club's management.
The win over TS Galaxy provides a timely boost for Kaizer Chiefs ahead of their Soweto derby against Orlando Pirates on Saturday. Da Cruz will be looking to build on the momentum from Tuesday's win and guide his team to a positive result against their arch-rivals. The team's recent form has been inconsistent, but Da Cruz is hopeful that they can turn their season around.
Da Cruz concluded by stating that he is not a better coach now than he was last week when they were eliminated from the Caf Confederation Cup. He emphasized that the team's focus is on improving and analyzing their situation to achieve better results. The coach's confidence and the management's backing will be crucial in determining Kaizer Chiefs' success in the coming weeks.
Key points
- Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz pleased with 3-0 win over TS Galaxy
- Da Cruz admits team's performance was not their best this season
- Kaizer Chiefs face Orlando Pirates in the Betway Premiership on Saturday
