Kaizer Chiefs were held to a 1-1 draw by Stellenbosch FC at FNB Stadium on Tuesday, a result that leaves them nine points off the pace in the Premier Soccer League. The match was overshadowed by head coach Fernando da Cruz falling ill afterwards, requiring medical attention and missing his post-match duties.
Mduduzi Shabalala scored the equaliser for Chiefs in the 58th minute, cancelling out Sinoxolo Kwayiba's opener for the visitors just after half-time. Assistant coach Dillon Sheppard addressed the media, confirming the head coach's condition. "Coach has fallen ill," Sheppard said. "He was vomiting, so he is with the doctors, checking on him."
The draw extends Kaizer Chiefs' unbeaten start to the season but also marks their fifth draw in eight league games, leaving them fourth in the standings with 14 points. Former Chiefs winger and analyst Junior Khanye was sharply critical of the team's performance and the coach's future. He argued da Cruz's tactical setup was lopsided when chasing a winner and that the coach must take responsibility for the dropped points.
Khanye went further, predicting da Cruz would not see out the campaign at Naturena. He suggested January could be a decisive point unless a strong cup run buys the coach more time. The analyst also pointed to upcoming fixtures against Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns as potential flashpoints. Chiefs will next travel to face Orlando Pirates, who are second, on 31 October. Check the upcoming fixtures for all the dates.
Despite the criticism, the team remains undefeated and has conceded just eight goals this season. The immediate focus shifts to continental competition, with a CAF Confederation Cup trip to face Red Arrows in Zambia this Saturday.
First reported at Briefly
