Kaizer Chiefs legend Brian Baloyi has publicly criticised head coach Fernando da Cruz's tactical approach following a mixed start to the season. Baloyi believes the regular use of three defensive midfielders undermines the club's identity and signals a lack of belief in the squad's ability to compete for the title.

Speaking after analysing the team's 1-1 draw with Polokwane City last Saturday, the former goalkeeper said the setup is fundamentally at odds with how Chiefs should play. That result left the team fourth in the Premier Soccer League with 12 points from six matches, eight points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.

A cautious model

Da Cruz has overseen seven games in all competitions since taking charge, with three wins and three draws in the league and an early MTN8 Cup exit. Across those matches, the team has kept just one clean sheet while regularly deploying a three-man backline supported by two or three defensive midfielders.

"I think his lineup speaks to what he said about, 'I'm not a magician,'" Baloyi said. He argued that such selections send a negative message to the players. "Clearly, he doesn't really believe in his players. He doesn't really believe in the team that they can challenge for the league."

While acknowledging promising first-half chances against Polokwane City, where Lebohang Maboe scored, Baloyi insisted the overall philosophy is wrong. "For me, starting with three defensive midfielders… yes, the lads did very well getting into scoring positions in the first half, but that's not the Chiefs way," he stated. "Even when you're playing with two defensive midfielders, it's still not good for a Chiefs team."

The broader challenge

The remarks reflect broader scepticism about whether a cautious model can mount a credible challenge against rivals like Sundowns and Orlando Pirates. The team's recent form, with just one win in their last four matches, has raised questions about their title credentials.

With 12 goals scored and seven conceded this season, the team's attacking output has been inconsistent. Top scorer Maboe has found the net twice in six appearances, a tally the club will need to improve as the campaign progresses. The full squad list is available on our squad page.

Da Cruz now faces the task of balancing defensive solidity with the attacking verve expected at Naturena. The team's next match offers an immediate chance to address the concerns raised by one of its most respected former players.

First reported at Briefly News