Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz expressed satisfaction with how the players are adopting his tactics, but warned that despite the victories at the start of the new season, there is still a lot of work ahead.
The Amakhosi team continued its success after triumphing in the Toyota Cup over Zimbabwe's Scottland FC, securing a convincing 3-1 victory against the recently promoted Kruger United in their opening Betway Premier League match on Saturday.
After winning the trophy in front of fans in Rustenburg, Chiefs maintained this momentum at Mbombela Stadium. Substitute player Vandile Dube scored twice after Flavio Da Silva opened the scoring for the visitors.
These wins gave fans an early look at Da Cruz's tactical approach: Chiefs appeared more aggressive in possession and faster in transition than most of last season.
Despite the positive signs, the Frenchman insisted that the team's early success is a result of the players assimilating his playing model, not a sign of a finished product. 'I think it's a playing model, the players love this playing model, and they love to work hard for us, so I hope this continues,' Da Cruz stated after the match against Kruger United.
He added: 'I understand that only two matches have passed, and the season will be very long, so we have a lot of work to do.'
The squad's reaction was one of the biggest positive moments for the Chiefs coach since taking charge before the new campaign. After an intensive pre-season camp in Spain, Da Cruz has repeatedly spoken about implementing a clear playing identity, and the first two matches show that the players are beginning to understand what is required.
In the game against Kruger United, Chiefs recovered well after conceding a goal late in the first half, and Dube's brace secured the team maximum points at the start of the Betway Premiership campaign. This match also demonstrated the growing depth of the squad, as substitutes made another significant contribution after the injured Da Silva was replaced in the second half.
Although the early signs look promising, Da Cruz realizes that much tougher challenges lie ahead as Chiefs strive to end their long wait for success in the league. Nevertheless, renewed optimism reigns in Naturena currently. The Toyota Cup trophy and three points in the opening weekend have created the perfect foundation for the Frenchman to continue developing his project, even if he insists that the Glamour Boys remain a project in progress with significant potential for improvement.
