Former Kaizer Chiefs coach Muhsin Ertugral has warned the club it would be dangerous to base long-term decisions about coach Fernando Da Cruz purely on the outcome of the upcoming Soweto Derby. The advice comes with Da Cruz preparing for his first derby in charge after a challenging start to the 2026/27 season that has seen the team exit the CAF Confederation Cup early and sit fifth in the Premier Soccer League with 14 points from eight games.
Ertugral, who had two trophy-laden spells at Naturena, stressed that a single result cannot solve underlying issues. He emphasised that while the derby carries immense emotional weight, it should not be the only factor in assessing the new coach's progress. "The Soweto Derby is never just another football game," Ertugral said. "I know what this game means to the fans, to the clubs and everyone involved."
Ertugral's warning on short-termism
Ertugral cautioned against the reactive decision-making that often follows such high-stakes fixtures. He believes a victory over Orlando Pirates could change the mood overnight but would not automatically address the need for a clear football identity and consistent performances. The former coach stated that building a project on short-term results is a risky path, and patience must be balanced with visible progress on the pitch. His comments reflect a broader concern about impatience in South African football, where coaches at a club of Chiefs' stature often operate with limited time.
Derby context and new coach pressure
Da Cruz faces this major test on the back of mixed form. The team recently ended a five-game winless run with a 3-0 Carling Knockout victory over TS Galaxy, where Wandile Duba scored a hat-trick. However, they immediately followed that with a 2-1 league defeat to Orlando Pirates just days ago, a result that leaves them nine points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns in the standings. The upcoming derby at FNB Stadium is therefore key, but Ertugral insists the club's leadership must look beyond it. He questioned whether the team is showing the necessary development and warned that using the fixture to 'seal the Frenchman's fate' would be a mistake.
Kaizer Chiefs' recent record shows two wins, one draw, and two defeats in their last five matches across all competitions. After the derby, attention turns to a tough home league fixture against third-placed Amazulu on 4 November. The club's immediate schedule is a demanding one, and the debate over Da Cruz's longevity is sure to continue regardless of Saturday's result. Ertugral's core message is that long-term development, not short-term emotion, must guide the club's decisions as they handle this period.
First reported at Goal.com
