Da Cruz backs Shabalala after penalty miss in Kaizer Chiefs win

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has urged Mduduzi Shabalala to keep his confidence after the midfielder missed a penalty during Sunday’s 2-1 victory over Siwelele FC in the Carling Knockout Cup.

Chiefs had fallen behind at the Peter Mokaba Stadium when Siyabonga Ndebele gave Siwelele the lead. They were awarded a penalty in the 36th minute after Lebohang Maboe was brought into the box, but Shabalala failed to find the target from the spot.

Wandile Duba later converted for Kaizer Chiefs, helping them secure a place in the semi-finals.

Shabalala was visibly disappointed by his miss. His team-mates tried to encourage him to take a second penalty shortly before half-time, but he chose not to do so.

Da Cruz said afterwards that he had reminded the 22-year-old that even the best players can fail from the spot, while stressing how important Shabalala remains to his team.

“I said [to Mdu] missing a penalty can happen to all the players,” said Da Cruz.

“It has happened before to the best players in football in the best competitions.

“So, it’s normal that he’s disappointed but he missed a header, he must continue to work because for us, he’s a very important player and we need him.”