“Victory on the Field” – Da Cruz Stays Resolute Amidst Criticism

October 24, 2026 sportnow Amidst criticism, Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz joked about his team’s elimination from the CAF Confederation Cup on Friday night, asserting that Amakhosi “won the match” despite falling 3-2 on penalties to Zambian champions Red Arrows at Moses Mabhida Stadium. In the second leg, Chiefs managed to secure a 1-0 victory in regulation time, thanks to a second-half header from Bradley Cross, which leveled the aggregate score at 1-1 following their loss in the first leg in Ndola.

However, with no extra time played, the match proceeded to a penalty shootout where misses from Lebohang Maboe, Reeve Frosler, and Ethan Chislett marked the end of Amakhosi’s continental journey.

When questioned about addressing Chiefs’ current struggles, Da Cruz adopted a defensive stance.

“Today, we won the game, but we lost on penalty shootouts,” Da Cruz stated. “On the field, we achieved victory.”

The ‘defeat’ has now extended Chiefs’ winless streak to five games across all competitions. However, the French coach referenced an increasing injury list as a major concern, revealing that goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner had sustained a finger injury during the final training session on Thursday.

Leaner’s unexpected absence resulted in Bruce Bvuma starting in goal for only the second time, while club captain Brandon Petersen was placed on the bench along with midfielder Maboe, who came on in the second half.

“On Friday, matchday minus one, during the final ball of the training session, Renaldo injured his finger, which is why he was unavailable,” explained Da Cruz.

“We have not had much luck with injuries. Currently, we have five players sidelined. However, if you evaluate the team’s performance, it remains quite positive.”

Having concluded their continental campaign, Chiefs must quickly redirect their focus towards domestic competitions. Amakhosi will host TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout Cup Round of 16 at FNB Stadium on Tuesday night, followed by a match against their fierce rivals Orlando Pirates in the Soweto Derby next weekend.

Failing to achieve a victory against TS Galaxy could prompt management to make a swift decision regarding Da Cruz’s position at Naturena.