Kaizer Chiefs boss Da Cruz demands defensive improvement after Siwelele win

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando da Cruz says his side must improve defensively and show greater leadership after surviving a 3-2 victory over Siwelele at Dobsonville Stadium on Sunday evening.

Chiefs took all three points to remain unbeaten after three wins and two draws in their opening five matches of the Betway Premiership campaign. The result leaves the Soweto club third in the table, but Da Cruz was unhappy with the way his team allowed Siwelele to turn a seemingly comfortable contest into a tense finish.

The visitors dominated much of the first half and created a number of opportunities, yet failed to build a decisive lead. Academy products Mfundo Vilakazi and Wandile Duba put Chiefs 2-0 ahead, but their inability to convert more chances gave Siwelele a route back into the game.

The hosts made the most of their limited opportunities after the interval, with Aphiwe Baliti and Michael N’Guessan both finding the net to increase the pressure on Chiefs. Faiz Abrahams later forced an own goal from Samuleke Xulu, which ultimately proved decisive as Chiefs held on for victory.

Da Cruz said the contrast between the two teams’ finishing was a major concern, particularly after Siwelele scored twice from only two chances.

“In the first half we created several chances but didn’t score enough, in the second half, Siwelele had two chances and scored two goals, we have an issue about that, we need to improve our defence, not give these chances to opponents,” Da Cruz told SuperSport TV.

The French coach also linked the late pressure to his side’s lack of efficiency in both penalty areas. Chiefs had opportunities to put the result beyond doubt, but defensive errors allowed Siwelele to regain momentum and threaten a comeback.

“We created so much and didn’t score, so after you can make mistakes, we’re not clinical in the boxes, offensively and defensively,” he added.

Da Cruz questions defensive character

Although Chiefs eventually secured another important league victory, Da Cruz delivered a strong assessment of the defensive performance. He argued that the team’s back line had lacked the authority and composure required to protect a lead.

“We lack leadership and character, personality in our defensive line – so we need to correct that and work a lot.”

The victory keeps Chiefs’ early-season unbeaten run intact, but Da Cruz’s comments underline the work still required if the club are to maintain their challenge near the top of the Betway Premiership. Their attacking opportunities were enough to earn three points against Siwelele, yet the goals conceded after half-time showed that the Soweto giants remain vulnerable when opponents are given openings.