Fernando da Cruz backs Kaizer Chiefs to respond quickly after Confederation Cup exit

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz believes the club’s swift return to action can help his players recover from their CAF Confederation Cup disappointment and build on the positives from their defeat by Red Arrows.

Chiefs won 1-0 at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Thursday, with Bradley Cross scoring a header, but were beaten 3-2 on penalties by Zambia’s Red Arrows after the sides finished level on aggregate. The result followed Chiefs’ 1-0 loss in Ndola a week earlier and ended their hopes of reaching the CAF Confederation Cup group stage.

The opening account of the match recorded the shootout score as 3-1, while the detailed match report recorded it as 3-2.

Chiefs had enough opportunities in Durban to settle the tie during 90 minutes but were unable to make their chances count. Mduduzi Shabalala faced strong criticism from supporters after missing key opportunities and failing to convert a penalty.

The result extended Amakhosi’s run to four matches without a win in all competitions, increasing the frustration among their support base.

Da Cruz, however, focused on the number of chances his side created and said the performance showed they were making progress.

“When we win or lose, we must analyze the game very well,” Da Cruz said during his post-match news conference at Moses Mabhida Stadium. “When you analyze this game, you see that we dominated and created chances. That’s the most positive thing. The most important thing is not to put too much pressure on these players. Everyone saw the performance today. We are on the right track.”

Chiefs now turn their attention to the Carling Knockout, with TS Galaxy visiting FNB Stadium for a last-16 tie on Tuesday night. Kick-off is scheduled for 7pm.

Da Cruz said the short gap between matches could help the team move on from the disappointment and ensure the players remain focused.

“It’s good that we are playing quickly again; the mental switch will be faster as well,” he said. “The most important thing on my mind right now is the Carling Knockout. The next match is always the most important one, so we must prepare properly to reach the next round.”

The meeting with TS Galaxy also provides Chiefs with a final test before Saturday’s Soweto derby against Orlando Pirates. Galaxy have proved a difficult opponent for Amakhosi, making victory in the knockout tie particularly important.

Orlando Pirates will enter the derby with confidence after qualifying for the Champions League group stage as one of South Africa’s continental representatives. Their progress comes after Mamelodi Sundowns suffered a shock exit.