Da Cruz backed by Kaizer Chiefs board after CAF Confederation Cup exit

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz says regular discussions with the club’s hierarchy have reinforced his belief that he has their support, despite the team’s early exit from the CAF Confederation Cup.

Da Cruz spoke publicly for the first time since a statement was issued at the weekend after Chiefs were knocked out by Zambian side Red Arrows FC on penalties last Friday.

The defeat increased pressure on the French coach from Amakhosi supporters, but a statement from Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Junior helped restore confidence in the technical team.

Da Cruz said the backing was consistent with the club’s normal internal processes, rather than a reaction to the result.

“Firstly, I would like to thank the club for the statement, the sporting director, as well as the entire board. And then, you must know it is very clear in the club that every month there is a meeting with the sporting director to discuss the team and the project of the club,” he said.

“It is very important, the confidence he has given us for the daily work that we have, and even when we draw, win, or lose, that every time we analyze the situation very well.”

Chiefs had been hoping to progress beyond the group stage of the continental competition after missing out on the last eight in the final match of the previous campaign’s group phase.

Their elimination by Red Arrows means they will not be able to build on that effort in the CAF Confederation Cup this season.

Da Cruz believes Motaung Junior and the board recognise the work being done to improve the team, despite a difficult run of results.

Before the defeat by Red Arrows, Chiefs had won just one of their previous seven matches in all competitions. Their form also affected their position in the Betway Premiership, where they dropped to fifth place, behind newly promoted Milford FC.

The coach said injuries had added to the team’s problems, with important players unavailable in almost every area of the squad.

Da Cruz maintained that the club’s leadership has been closely involved in assessing the team’s performances, regardless of whether the results are victories, draws or defeats.

The regular meetings with Motaung Junior, he said, provide an opportunity to review both the team’s progress and the wider project at the club.