Da Cruz Reveals The Real Reason Behind His Five-Man Defence At Chiefs

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando da Cruz has defended his decision to use a five-man defence in some matches this season, insisting that his team’s attacking approach will remain the same regardless of the formation they use.

The Frenchman has faced criticism from some supporters and football observers over his tactical decisions, particularly his preference for a back five in several fixtures since returning to Naturena. There have been questions about whether the system makes Amakhosi too defensive, especially considering the club’s expectations and the desire to dominate opponents.

However, Da Cruz believes the formation should not be confused with the team’s overall playing philosophy. According to the coach, his decision to use four or five defenders depends on the players available and the type of opposition they face.

He insists that changing the defensive structure does not mean changing the attacking principles he wants his players to follow.

“There’s two things, sometimes related to availability, sometimes related to the opponent, back four, back five doesn’t impact our offensive game model, that’s the most important we want to keep our offensive ideas and principles in our game model,” Da Cruz said.

Injuries have been one of the main reasons behind the coach’s decision to experiment with different defensive arrangements. Da Cruz revealed that five players who could operate at left-back were already unavailable through injury just three matches into the new Betway Premiership season.

This forced the technical team to consider alternative solutions, with Chiefs moving away from their usual back-four formation in certain matches.

One of the players who has been given a different responsibility is Pule Mmodi. The 33-year-old winger was used as an emergency left wing-back during Chiefs’ 1-1 draw against Mamelodi Sundowns.

Mmodi has adapted to the role and has started three consecutive matches in the back-five system. Da Cruz has praised his ability to adjust to the tactical demands and considers him a useful option when Chiefs decide to play with three central defenders.

The coach has previously explained that he wants to develop a flexible team that can change its formation depending on different circumstances. His intention is not to make the back five a permanent feature of the team, but rather to give Chiefs more tactical options throughout the season.

This approach is part of his plan to build a hybrid team capable of responding to different opponents while maintaining the same attacking identity.

Da Cruz has also acknowledged that implementing his preferred playing style will take time. Following Chiefs’ opening victory against Kruger United, he explained that the players were still learning the game model and working hard to understand the principles he wants them to follow.

Meanwhile, the coach continues to face pressure because of the team’s inconsistent results. Chiefs endured a five-match winless run in all competitions before beating TS Galaxy. However, that victory was followed by a defeat in the Soweto Derby, bringing further criticism from sections of the supporters.

The club’s CAF Confederation Cup exit has also increased the pressure on the technical team, with some fans questioning whether Da Cruz is the right person to lead the team forward. Despite the criticism, sporting director Kaizer Motaung Junior has indicated that the club remains fully behind the French coach.

Da Cruz will now be hoping that his players can translate his tactical ideas into consistent performances and positive results.

For Chiefs supporters, the main concern will be whether the team can produce the attacking football expected from a club of their size. While the coach believes the number of defenders does not determine his team’s attacking identity, results on the field will ultimately influence how supporters judge his decisions.

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