Kaizer Chiefs back Fernando Da Cruz after CAF Confederation Cup exit

Kaizer Chiefs sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jr. has given his full backing to Fernando Da Cruz and the club’s technical team after their CAF Confederation Cup elimination by Red Arrows.

Amakhosi lost 3-2 on penalties after Bradley Cross’s goal brought the tie level during 90 minutes.

The result ended Kaizer Chiefs’ hopes of reaching the CAF Confederation Cup group stages and increased pressure on Da Cruz. The club had already been knocked out of the MTN8 and have won only one of their past six league matches.

Da Cruz now faces the Soweto Derby and a Carling Knockout tie against TS Galaxy with supporters increasingly questioning the team’s direction. However, Motaung Jr. said the club remained committed to its long-term plans under the French coach.

“Following our unfortunate CAF Confederation Cup result, we understand and share the disappointment felt by our supporters, players, staff, and all stakeholders connected to Kaizer Chiefs,” said a statement attributed to Motaung Jnr, Sporting Director, Kaizer Chiefs Football Club.

“Competing at continental level brings high expectations, and when results do not meet those expectations, naturally there is frustration and reflection.

“At moments such as these, it is important to maintain perspective and remain committed to the long-term vision we have established for the Club. Success in football is rarely defined by a single match or a single competition. It is built through consistency, resilience, and unwavering commitment to a clear sporting strategy.

“As a Club, we would like to reaffirm our full support for, and confidence in, the Head Coach and the entire technical team. They continue to have our trust as they lead the implementation of a football philosophy and development pathway that we firmly believe will bring sustainable success.

“Their professionalism, work ethic, and commitment to improving the team every day remain irreproachable. The team is fighting hard every game to uphold a high standard of performance, and yesterday, despite the result and the injuries we carry, that warrior spirit was visible on the field.

“We have made significant progress in key areas of our sporting project, and while setbacks are a natural part of any ambitious journey, they do not alter our conviction in the direction we are taking.

“We remain aligned behind our objectives, our playing identity, and our long-term plan for success both domestically and on the continent.

“Our responsibility is not to be guided solely by the emotion of an adverse result, but rather by careful analysis, stability, and strategic decision-making. We will continue to evaluate performances honestly, learn from this experience, and make the necessary improvements to ensure continued growth and competitiveness.

“To our supporters, we acknowledge your disappointment and thank you for your steadfast passion and support. The standards at this institution remain as high as ever, and everyone within the football department is fully committed to meeting them.

“Now is the time for unity, not division. We believe in the work being done, we believe in the people leading that work, and we believe the foundations being laid today will deliver the success our supporters deserve.

“We move forward together with determination, accountability, and confidence in the future.”