Kaizer Chiefs have confirmed their backing for head coach Fernando Da Cruz as the club prepares for a key Carling Knockout Cup semi-final against Mamelodi Sundowns. The French coach retains the confidence of the management despite recent pressure and a Soweto Derby defeat to Orlando Pirates earlier this season. The team's league form, with three wins, five draws and one loss from nine games, sees them in 5th place with 14 points, though they are 12 points behind the league-leading Sundowns.
Da Cruz has overseen just two defeats since taking charge at Naturena, and a potential loss in the upcoming semi-final is not expected to cost him his job. Club officials are understood to be content with the direction of his project, pointing to a competitive draw with Sundowns and a strong first-half display against Pirates as signs of progress. The team's recent form in the league has been mixed, with just one win, three draws and one loss from their last five matches.
The FIFA international break provided valuable time for a squad reset, allowing Da Cruz to reassess his options and welcome back injured players. Forwards Khanyisa Mayo and Langelihle Phili are expected to return to the squad in the coming weeks after recovering from their respective injuries, boosting the team's attacking options. Their return is timely as the club's top scorer this season is M. Shabalala with just two goals in six appearances.
Chiefs secured their semi-final spot with a victory over Siwelele last weekend, a result that underlined their cup credentials. That 2-1 win, with goals from W. Duba and A. Velebayi, was part of a recent run of three wins and two losses across all competitions. The immediate focus now shifts to the high-stakes clash with Mamelodi Sundowns, with the club's full support behind Da Cruz to handle the challenge. Their next league assignment is an away trip to Chippa United on Saturday 28 November.
First reported at Briefly News
