Fernando Da Cruz’s Work at Chiefs Gets Attention From Ouaddou

Ouaddou Praises Fernando Da Cruz as Chiefs Show Renewed Energy Ahead of Soweto Derby

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has acknowledged the positive changes taking place at Kaizer Chiefs under Fernando Da Cruz, admitting that the Soweto giants have shown renewed energy ahead of their highly anticipated derby clash.

The two rivals are preparing to meet at FNB Stadium on Saturday, October 31, in one of the biggest fixtures on the South African football calendar. With both teams eager to claim bragging rights, the encounter promises to deliver another intense battle between two of the country’s most supported clubs.

Although Pirates enter the contest with the advantage of being the reigning Betway Premiership champions, Ouaddou has warned his players against underestimating their opponents. The Moroccan tactician believes Chiefs have shown encouraging signs under their new technical team, making the upcoming encounter a potentially difficult challenge.

“Being favourites does not always mean that you are going to win. There is a new coach (Fernando Da Cruz) and technical team that is doing a good job at Kaizer Chiefs, and we see the renewed energy,” Ouaddou said.

His comments demonstrate the respect he has for the work being done at Naturena, despite the fierce rivalry between the two clubs.

Da Cruz arrived at Chiefs with the responsibility of helping the club regain consistency and compete for major honours. While his team has faced challenges during the campaign, there have also been encouraging performances that suggest the squad is adapting to his methods.

The Chiefs coach will now face one of his biggest tests since taking charge, as he prepares for his first Soweto Derby against Pirates. The occasion will demand tactical discipline, mental strength and the ability to handle the enormous pressure associated with the fixture.

Pirates, meanwhile, will be determined to maintain their strong position in domestic football. Under Ouaddou, the Buccaneers have developed into a competitive side capable of controlling matches and punishing opponents when opportunities arise.

However, the Pirates coach understands that derby encounters are rarely decided by league positions alone. The atmosphere, individual performances and ability to seize decisive moments can quickly change the outcome.

Both clubs also enter the showdown after recording convincing 3-0 victories in their respective Carling Knockout matches. Pirates defeated Milford FC, while Chiefs overcame TS Galaxy, giving both teams a confidence boost ahead of the weekend.

For Chiefs supporters, Ouaddou’s assessment offers encouragement that their team is making progress under Da Cruz. Nevertheless, the ultimate test will come on the pitch, where Amakhosi must demonstrate that their renewed energy can translate into a strong performance against their biggest rivals.

With pride, points and bragging rights at stake, Saturday’s showdown presents Da Cruz with an opportunity to make a significant statement.

Source https://x.com/Soccer_Laduma/status/2116115456943669727?a=yweuRipC_prc_7TJbKY&s=19

SA_Sports feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com