Fernando Da Cruz urges Kaizer Chiefs not to give up after CAF Confederation Cup exit

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz says his side must remain confident and continue in the same way despite a five-match run without victory.

Amakhosi have drawn three and lost two of their past five matches in all competitions. Their latest disappointment came on Friday night, when they were eliminated from the CAF Confederation Cup by Zambian club Red Arrows after losing a penalty shoot-out.

Da Cruz believes the results have not reflected his team’s performances, arguing that Kaizer Chiefs have been punished by a lack of luck in front of goal and during important moments in matches.

Speaking after the defeat at Moses Mabhida Stadium, the coach said he remained encouraged by the way his players had performed.

“As I have already said, the team plays very well for the moment,” said Da Cruz.

“It’s a fact, the result was not on our side today but we must continue on this way because if we continue to work as we have been and to play as we did today with character, with intensity, the luck will turn on our side and we will win more and more games.”

The Frenchman believes continuing to show the same intensity and character will eventually bring improved results for Kaizer Chiefs.

The club’s Confederation Cup campaign has now ended, but Da Cruz stressed that the season is still at an early stage and that his team has more opportunities ahead in several competitions.

He called on his players to remain focused rather than allow the recent run to affect their belief.

“We cannot give up, we are only in October, it’s the beginning of the season, there is again a lot of games so we must just continue to work,” he added.