Kaizer Chiefs supports coach Fernando da Cruz after exit from CAF Confederation Cup

The coach of Kaizer Chiefs, Fernando da Cruz, appealed to the fans for unity among players, technical staff, and supporters, as 'Amakhosi' faced the possibility of an early exit from the CAF Confederation Cup.

The team suffered a 1-0 defeat against Zambian club Red Arrows in the first match of the second preliminary round at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, which requires them to work in the second round.

Since the decisive match is scheduled for next Friday at Moses Mabhida Stadium, da Cruz is counting on fan support to inspire the team to turn things around and maintain their participation in the continental campaign.

Da Cruz stated: 'We need them on Friday for the game to support us because I know the team is capable of changing the result.' The French coach emphasized that during difficult times, everyone associated with the club must move in the same direction, rather than letting pressure divide the team.

He added: 'The most important thing is that in difficult moments we must remain united: players, staff, club, and fans, to get through this period and achieve the best results.'

Chiefs will require a more convincing attacking performance after struggling to create clear goal-scoring opportunities in Zambia. Da Cruz admitted that changes might be necessary if his team wants to overcome Red Arrows and compensate for the deficit.

The coach noted: 'Certainly, we need to change something to create more chances. Usually, we create more chances in the PSL.' He also acknowledged that the first match was unusual due to his team's lack of attacking output, making it important for the technical staff to assess what went wrong before the return match.

'This is the first time we haven't created many chances, so we need to analyze it, and then we need to change something to have a chance to qualify.'

Now Chiefs' task is to put these words into action in front of their home fans. They need to win by at least two goals to guarantee qualification for the main round, while a one-goal victory would send the match into extra time if the aggregate score remains level.

For da Cruz, the message is clear: 'Amakhosi' needs collective response both on the field and in the stands if they want to avoid early continental setbacks.

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz stated that his team has the potential to compete with Mamelodi Sundowns, although he is unsure if they can maintain such a high level of intensity throughout the season.

Mamelodi Sundowns is currently considered the best team in domestic football. They demonstrated their skill by defeating Betway Premiership champions Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday evening, winning their first domestic trophy of the season.

Previously, the Brazilian team was recognized as the best on the African continent, as well as in the Asia-Pacific region after victories in the CAF Champions League and the FIFA Africa-Asia-Pacific Cup, respectively.

Now that the Brazilian team is at the top of these regions, other teams are striving to test their competitiveness against them.

Speaking at a press conference before the match against Stellenbosch at FNB Stadium on Tuesday evening (at 19:30), da Cruz made a bold statement, referencing the game where Amakhosi drew 1-1 with Sundowns at the same venue earlier in the season.

He noted: 'At the beginning of the season, we saw that we could compete with Mamelodi Sundowns in that one game. We played very well against them.' He continued: 'Our goal is to compete throughout the season and go through all stages against them in the PSL. However, at this moment, I cannot say whether we can do it or not.'

Chiefs will face Stellenbosch in their first match after the FIFA World Cup break, aiming to maintain their undefeated start in the league. They are currently in fourth place with 13 points, seven points behind leaders Sundowns, despite Sundowns having played one more match.

Da Cruz faces injury problems ahead of the match against Stellies, especially considering that three midfielders have been ruled out: Lebohang Maboe, Siphesile Ndlovu, and Adolph Mtasinga, leaving Sibongiseni Mthethwa as the only healthy regular player. The French coach remains composed.

Da Cruz stated: 'I fully understand this issue and I am speaking frankly' regarding Mthethwa being the most recognizable central midfielder available for selection. 'But we have prepared something, and you will see tomorrow.'