Da Cruz Speaks After Chiefs Secure Carling Knockout Victory

Da Cruz Makes Honest Admission After Chiefs’ 3-0 Victory as He Identifies One Major Concern

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando da Cruz has expressed confidence in his team’s playing philosophy but admits that their efficiency remains a concern despite their convincing 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout Cup on Tuesday night.

Amakhosi secured their place in the quarter-finals at FNB Stadium on 27 October 2026, producing a much-needed result after their disappointing elimination from the CAF Confederation Cup. The victory was particularly important for Da Cruz, who has faced increasing pressure following a series of frustrating results.

Speaking about his team’s progress, the French coach made it clear that he believes the players are beginning to understand and trust the footballing approach he wants them to implement. However, he acknowledged that there is still room for improvement when it comes to converting their opportunities into goals.

“We’re having confidence in our model game but not in the efficiency,” Da Cruz explained, highlighting the difference between playing according to a clear tactical plan and delivering consistent results on the pitch.

His comments reflect an issue that has troubled Chiefs in recent matches. While the Soweto giants have demonstrated periods of promising football and created opportunities, their inability to make those chances count has occasionally proved costly.

The match against TS Galaxy offered a positive response, with young striker Wandile Duba emerging as the outstanding performer of the evening.

After a goalless first half, Duba broke the deadlock in the 48th minute, giving the home supporters something to celebrate. He doubled the advantage in the 62nd minute after reacting quickest to the rebound from Mfundo Vilakazi’s missed penalty.

The forward completed his hat-trick just four minutes later, finishing off an excellent through-ball from Mduduzi Shabalala to put the contest beyond the visitors.

Duba’s clinical performance demonstrated precisely what Da Cruz wants to see more consistently from his players. Rather than allowing opportunities to go to waste, Chiefs punished their opponents when the decisive moments arrived.

The result also provided a significant morale boost ahead of the highly anticipated Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates on Saturday, 31 October.

For Da Cruz, the challenge now is to ensure that the performance against TS Galaxy becomes a foundation for further progress rather than an isolated success.

Chiefs supporters will hope that the convincing victory signals a turning point in their season, particularly after the disappointment of missing out on continental competition.

With confidence returning and Duba delivering an impressive attacking display, Amakhosi have reasons to be optimistic. Nevertheless, maintaining their attacking efficiency and consistency will be essential if they are to compete for silverware and meet the expectations surrounding one of South African football’s biggest clubs.

Source https://x.com/Soccer_Laduma/status/2115184783290519711?a=mxXxVZwYJx8ekziF3Mg&s=19

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