Kenny Niemach calls for Kaizer Chiefs to sack Fernando Da Cruz

Former Kaizer Chiefs striker Kenny Niemach says Fernando Da Cruz should be dismissed, arguing the club needs a coach with greater ambition and an acceptance that a season without silverware is not good enough.

Niemach believes Chiefs must begin searching for a manager capable of challenging for the Betway Premiership title, with Da Cruz’s position under increasing pressure.

Da Cruz joined Chiefs on a two-year contract but has yet to establish a consistent style of play. The club remain unbeaten in the league, although five draws from eight matches have cost them valuable points and allowed Mamelodi Sundowns to build a nine-point lead at the top of the table.

The coach’s tactical changes, including switching between a back three and a back four, have also contributed to uneven performances.

Pressure on Da Cruz increased after Chiefs lost 1-0 to Zambia’s Red Arrows FC in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup tie. A late mistake from a corner exposed further weaknesses at set pieces, with the second leg scheduled for Friday at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Niemach questions Da Cruz’s record

Niemach said Da Cruz had failed to fulfil the responsibilities that came with his appointment.

“When this man signed the contract, he had a mandate. He has obviously not lived up to that mandate.”

“Five draws in eight league matches? If those expectations are not met, we have to appoint the right coach as soon as possible,” Niemach told KickOff.

The former striker was also critical of the team’s approach and questioned whether Da Cruz understood the strengths of the players available to him.

“He must go; he has not delivered. He is playing defensive football, but the team is still conceding goals.”

“That means he does not understand the characteristics of his players.”

“The Chiefs coach is not recognising those characteristics,” he added.

Chiefs will face two important fixtures that could shape Da Cruz’s immediate future. They are due to play TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout before meeting Orlando Pirates in the Soweto derby on October 31.

Those matches will test whether Da Cruz can improve results and performances, or whether the club decides to end his tenure.