Da Cruz explains Kaizer Chiefs’ back-three decision in Mamelodi Sundowns draw

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz says injuries and the need to restrict Mamelodi Sundowns’ attacking space prompted him to switch to a back three for Saturday’s 1-1 draw at FNB Stadium.

Chiefs used a 5-3-2 formation, with Thabo Moloisane making his debut as Da Cruz sought greater defensive security against a Sundowns side known for controlling possession and putting opponents under sustained pressure.

The hosts took the lead when Langelihle Phili scored, but Cassius Mailula replied for the visitors to ensure the points were shared.

The result kept Kaizer Chiefs at the top of the Betway Premiership table after three matches. They have taken seven points from their opening fixtures, recording two victories and one draw.

Da Cruz said the change in shape was not simply a reaction to Sundowns’ strengths. The French coach explained that injuries had affected his selection, while the quality of the opposition meant Chiefs needed to reduce the areas available for Sundowns to attack.

“First of all, we set up this structure because we had players injured [and out] so we needed to find a solution for today,” Da Cruz said.

“Secondly, if we had let this team have space, it would’ve killed us so we needed to control space both in front and behind us.”

The system was intended to give Chiefs a platform from which they could also threaten Sundowns, rather than leave them focused entirely on protecting their own goal.

However, Da Cruz acknowledged that his players found it difficult to carry out the attacking element of the plan before half-time. Chiefs improved after the interval, particularly in possession, although they were unable to find a winning goal.

“But in this system, we prepared our team to be able to attack but we weren’t very good in possession in the first half but we were better in the second half,” he added.

The draw offered Da Cruz another assessment of his squad against one of the most established sides in the country. Chiefs remain unbeaten at the start of the campaign, but the coach was cautious when asked whether his team was now close to competing with Sundowns on equal terms.

Da Cruz said the two clubs were at different stages of development and that it would be unfair to make a direct comparison. Sundowns, he noted, have benefited from several years of continuity, while Chiefs are still adapting to a new technical approach.

“Lastly, we cannot compare the two teams because on one side you have Sundowns, a team that’s played together for the past six or seven years and we have just arrived,” he said.

“So give us time and we will improve step by step.”