Kaizer Chiefs have thrown their support behind head coach Fernando Da Cruz despite the club’s disappointing early exit from the CAF Confederation Cup.
The pressure around Da Cruz’s position increased after Amakhosi were knocked out of the continental competition on Friday night. However, sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jr. has moved quickly to make the club’s position clear: the French coach still has the backing of the Chiefs hierarchy.
Chiefs reaffirm faith in Da Cruz
Motaung Jr. says the club remains confident in Da Cruz and his technical team as they work towards implementing a long-term football philosophy.
The sporting director stressed that the coach and his staff continue to have the club’s trust, with their professionalism and commitment to improving the squad remaining important factors.
The backing comes at a crucial moment for Da Cruz, who has already seen Chiefs suffer early exits from both the MTN8 and CAF Confederation Cup.
Da Cruz under pressure despite club backing
While the club has publicly supported its coach, results have inevitably placed Da Cruz under scrutiny.
Chiefs were unable to overturn their first-leg deficit against Red Arrows, eventually bowing out after a penalty shootout following a 1-1 aggregate score.
The setback has added to concerns among supporters, who will now expect a stronger response in the domestic campaign.
Despite the cup disappointments, Chiefs currently sit fourth in the Betway Premiership after eight matches, giving Da Cruz an opportunity to turn the situation around.
What next for Kaizer Chiefs?
With the club publicly standing behind Da Cruz, the focus now shifts to performances on the pitch.
The coach will need to deliver consistent results and ensure Chiefs remain in contention domestically if he is to ease the growing pressure around his position.
For now, the message from Naturena is clear: Da Cruz remains the man trusted to lead the project.
The big question is whether the results will eventually match that confidence.
Do you think Kaizer Chiefs made the right decision by backing Fernando Da Cruz?
