Fernando da Cruz, the head coach of Kaizer Chiefs, believes that the team still needs to significantly improve its attacking potential ahead of the start of the new Betway Premiership season.
Pre-season Stage and Results
The team concluded the pre-season with a 1-0 victory over Zimbabwe champions Scottland FC in the Toyota Cup, which was held at the Royal Bafokeng stadium in Rustenburg on Sunday. The decisive goal was scored by Mfundu Vilakazi in the second half after he moved from the flank and sent the ball into the net, securing a positive result for Chiefs before their league debut.
Team Development Priorities
Despite the win, da Cruz pointed to the weak offensive output as an area requiring close attention, especially given the limited number of attacking reinforcements during the transfer window. The only significant acquisition in the attacking line was the permanent signing of Hanisisa Mayo after the end of his loan spell. The French coach acknowledged that increasing efficiency in the final third remains the main priority.
Coach's Comments on Team Performance
After the match, da Cruz stated: 'We have a good defensive structure, but in terms of attack, right now, it is the part we are spending the most time working on and improving, and we are working on it, but this is our process, our intention to improve in attack.' Chiefs will begin their campaign in the Betway Premiership as underdogs, playing away against newly promoted Kruger United at the Mbombela stadium on Saturday. Da Cruz believes that the physical load provided by the match against Scottland was ideal preparation for the start of the season.
Analysis of Vilakazi's Game
Vilakazi was one of Chiefs' standout players, receiving the man of the match award for his effective play from the flank and scoring the winning goal. Da Cruz described the 20-year-old player as a versatile option capable of solving problems in various attacking roles, not being limited to a winger position. The coach explained that tactics depend on the zone on the field, the opponent's structure, and the team's playing model: 'We asked wingers to stay wide and sometimes cut inside.' He added that Vilakazi is interesting because he can play as a winger, forward, or striker, which is very valuable for the squad.
Season Prospects
As the season approaches, da Cruz hopes that the team can maintain its defensive discipline while achieving a more stable attacking rhythm, aiming to build on the success of the previous season when they finished third.



