Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz remains convinced that Amakhosi can still challenge for the Betway Premiership title, despite suffering a damaging defeat to Orlando Pirates in the latest Soweto Derby.
Chiefs lost 2-1 to their biggest rivals over the weekend, leaving them 11 points behind the Buccaneers after nine league matches.
The result has increased the pressure on Da Cruz and his squad, but the coach insists the season is far from over, with 21 fixtures still to be played.
Da Cruz believes Chiefs can turn their season around
The Chiefs coach acknowledged that the derby defeat has made the club’s title ambitions more difficult. However, he believes there is enough time for his team to close the gap on the league leaders.
Da Cruz also pointed to the club’s injury problems as one of the factors affecting their performances this season.
He expects the return of several injured players to improve competition within the squad and help Amakhosi find greater consistency.
Speaking after the Pirates defeat, as quoted by SABC Sport, Da Cruz said:
“I will say that it is more difficult today after this game, but the PSL is a long journey, so there are 21 fixtures remaining.”
The coach added that Chiefs have collected too many draws and believes his side could have taken something from the Soweto Derby.
He also suggested that a stronger, healthier squad would give the team a better opportunity to turn performances into victories.
Soweto Derby defeat provides a learning opportunity
Although disappointed with the result, Da Cruz believes the high-pressure encounter against Pirates can help his younger players develop.
The Chiefs coach wants his squad to understand that playing well is not enough at the highest level. They must also learn how to manage important moments and deliver results in demanding matches.
He explained that the derby provided valuable experience for players who are still adjusting to the demands of top-level football.
Da Cruz believes development takes time and that players cannot acquire experience overnight. Instead, he wants his team to use difficult matches as opportunities to improve and take the next step.
His message is clear: Chiefs must continue working, learn from setbacks and become more effective when opportunities arise.
Carling Knockout offers Da Cruz another opportunity
With the league campaign still in progress, Da Cruz’s immediate attention will turn to the Carling Knockout.
The competition gives the Chiefs coach another opportunity to compete for silverware and potentially secure his first trophy in South African football.
Winning a cup competition could also provide a confidence boost for a team that has endured an inconsistent start to its league campaign.
However, Amakhosi will need to show greater composure and consistency if they are to make a serious impact.
Can Kaizer Chiefs still win the Betway Premiership?
An 11-point gap to Orlando Pirates is a significant challenge, particularly with Chiefs having struggled to turn draws into victories.
Nevertheless, Da Cruz is not prepared to abandon his title ambitions. With 21 matches remaining, he believes there is still time for his team to recover ground.
The return of injured players, improved performances and lessons from the Soweto Derby could all play a role in shaping the rest of Chiefs’ campaign.
For now, the pressure is on Amakhosi to translate their coach’s confidence into results on the pitch.
