Chiefs Fans Have Been Asking About Mayo and Ighodaro, Now Da Cruz Has an Answer

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has explained why strikers Khanyisa Mayo and Etiosa Ighodaro have struggled to secure regular playing time, offering supporters an update on the challenges facing the two attacking players.

The coach’s comments come after Amakhosi suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Orlando Pirates in the Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium on Saturday, November 1, 2026. The result increased pressure on the Chiefs technical team as the club continues its search for consistency in the Betway Premiership.

With supporters eager to see the club’s attacking options deliver better results, questions have emerged about the continued absence of Mayo and the limited involvement of Ighodaro.

According to Da Cruz, Mayo’s absence is primarily related to his physical condition rather than a lack of quality.

The South African forward arrived at Naturena with expectations of strengthening the Chiefs attack following his previous experience with Cape Town City and his loan spell at the Soweto giants.

However, the striker has yet to make a competitive appearance for Chiefs under Da Cruz this season as he continues working towards the required fitness level.

Speaking after the Soweto Derby, the coach indicated that Mayo was making progress but was not physically prepared for the demands of the match against Pirates.

“Mayo is not far; he’s a quality player, but for this game he was not physically ready to play this type of game,” Da Cruz explained.

The coach’s comments suggest that the technical team is taking a cautious approach to the forward’s return rather than rushing him into action before he is ready.

Mayo will now be hoping to complete his recovery and become available for selection as the season progresses.

Meanwhile, Nigerian striker Ighodaro is facing a different obstacle in his attempt to establish himself at Chiefs.

Unlike Mayo, whose immediate challenge concerns his physical readiness, Ighodaro needs to improve his understanding of the team’s tactical approach.

Da Cruz explained that the forward was still learning the club’s playing philosophy, adding that the technical team was working with him to help him become a more effective option.

The coach believes Ighodaro could provide additional attacking strength once he adapts to the system.

His comments suggest that the striker’s limited involvement should not automatically be interpreted as a final judgement on his ability.

The absence of two attacking options comes at a challenging time for Amakhosi, who are looking to improve their performances after the derby defeat.

Da Cruz also highlighted the physical intensity of matches against opponents such as Pirates, particularly during the closing stages when fresh players can change the tempo.

For Chiefs supporters, the hope is that Mayo will regain his fitness while Ighodaro continues adapting to the team’s demands.

Neither player’s return to regular action is guaranteed at this stage. However, their progress could prove important as Amakhosi seek greater attacking consistency and improved results in the coming fixtures.

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