The French era at Naturena has kicked off with style, intent, and three points!
Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz earned praise from the Amakhosi faithful as his side opened their 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign with a commanding 3-1 victory over league newcomers Kruger United in front of over 50,000 fans at Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit.
Following their pre-season Toyota Cup success, the Glamour Boys put on an attacking clinic driven by tactical discipline, sending them straight to the top of the league standings on goal difference.
How the Action Unfolded
- Early Lead: Flavio Da Silva put Chiefs ahead early on with a clinical finish.
- First-Half Setback: Kruger United equalized on the stroke of half-time through Khetukuthula Ndlovu following their only major attack of the half.
- Tactical Masterclass: Da Cruz identified Kruger United’s playmaker as the main threat and made crucial half-time adjustments to shut down the passing lanes.
- Duba Double: Second-half substitute Wandile Duba struck twice after the restart to seal a comfortable 3–1 victory.
“We Are Building Our Identity” — Fernando Da Cruz
Reflecting on his debut league fixture in charge, the 54-year-old French tactician highlighted the squad’s commitment to his dynamic, direct attacking system:
“We controlled the game for the first 30 minutes… The main thing at half-time was to take measures to nullify their number 10, and we kept him quiet in the second half,” Da Cruz explained.
“We are in the process of implementing our game model, which the players enjoy. We have only played two games, which have gone well, yet we have a long season ahead and will always continue working hard to improve.”
What’s Next for Amakhosi?
- MTN8 Quarter-Final: vs Golden Arrows | Sunday, 9 August 2026 (18:00) @ FNB Stadium
- Betway Premiership: vs Sekhukhune United | Wednesday, 12 August 2026 (19:30) @ FNB Stadium
