Da Cruz on Chiefs’ Rising Star: He Can Become a Player for Bafana Bafana

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz has backed young striker Wandile Duba to become a future Bafana Bafana player after his impressive hat-trick against TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout Cup.

The 22-year-old delivered an outstanding performance on Tuesday night as Amakhosi secured a convincing 3-0 victory at FNB Stadium to book their place in the quarter-finals. Duba scored all three goals in the second half, producing a memorable performance that delighted supporters and strengthened his position in the team.

The young forward broke the deadlock shortly after the interval before adding two more goals in quick succession to complete his first hat-trick in South Africa’s top flight. His clinical finishing proved decisive as Chiefs secured an important victory after a difficult period.

Speaking after the match, Da Cruz expressed happiness with Duba’s performance but stressed that the striker must improve his consistency if he wants to reach the highest level of football.

“I am very happy for Duba; he is a young player, and so sometimes he has a lot of ups and downs. He must improve his consistency,” the coach said.

Da Cruz also highlighted the forward’s movement, ability to make dangerous runs and quality in front of goal. He believes Duba has the potential to represent South Africa internationally if he continues to work hard, listen to his coaches and improve his overall game.

Duba has enjoyed an encouraging start to the 2026/27 season, scoring six goals in seven appearances across all competitions. Three goals have come in the Betway Premiership, while the other three were scored in the Carling Knockout Cup.

His progress is particularly encouraging after an earlier injury kept him on the sidelines. Following his latest performance, supporters chanted his name as he left the pitch, and he was named man of the match by the fans.

The victory also provided a timely boost for Chiefs, who have struggled for consistency and recently suffered elimination from the CAF Confederation Cup.

Attention now turns to Saturday’s Soweto derby against Orlando Pirates. Duba will hope to maintain his scoring form against Chiefs’ fierce rivals.

Although a Bafana Bafana call-up is not guaranteed, his recent performances have strengthened his case. Continued improvement and consistent goalscoring could help him turn Da Cruz’s prediction into reality.

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