Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz expressed satisfaction with the rapid succession of matches, believing this will give his team time to utilize the positive moments it demonstrated, despite the failure to qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup group stage.
The Chiefs team lost to Zambia's 'Red Arrows' 3–2 on penalties in the second qualification match held in Durban. However, they won the match during regular time 1–0, thus leveling the aggregate score after a previous 1–0 defeat in Ndola a week earlier.
Nevertheless, the Amakhosi team was partly responsible for its own failure at home. They created a sufficient number of chances throughout the match to secure a victory but failed to convert these scoring opportunities at crucial moments.
Mduduzi Shabalaala faced harsh criticism from fans after missing key moments, which added to the disappointment felt by the fanbase, who are experiencing a four-match winless streak across all tournaments.
During the post-match press conference at Moses Mabhida Stadium, Da Cruz decided to find a positive aspect in the team's ability to create attacks. He stated: 'When we win or lose, we must analyze the game very carefully. When you analyze this match, you see that we dominated and created chances. That is the most positive thing. The most important thing is not to put too much pressure on these players. Everyone saw today's game. We are on the right track.'
Chiefs do not have time to dwell on the defeat. They need to maintain the momentum from their 90-minute triumph, secured by a header goal from Bradley Cross, for the upcoming game.
Da Cruz explained why he welcomes the quick return to action before the match in the Carlin Cup Round of 16 against TS Galaxy on Tuesday evening at FNB Stadium (starting at 19:00). He noted: 'It is good that we are playing again quickly; the mental transition will also be faster. The most important thing on my mind right now is the Carlin Cup. The next match is always the most important, so we must prepare properly to advance to the next round.'
A victory over the Galaxy team, often nicknamed 'the bogey,' is crucial as this match will serve as a dress rehearsal for the derby in Soweto on Saturday against arch-rival Orlando Pirates. Pirates enter this match full of confidence, as they represent South Africa in the continental Champions League group stage following the unexpected elimination of Mamelodi Sundowns.