Da Cruz insists Kaizer Chiefs’ attacking approach is unchanged by defensive shape

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando da Cruz says switching between a back four and a back five has not altered his team’s attacking identity.

The Frenchman has used a five-man defence in several matches since returning to Naturena, prompting criticism from supporters and pundits who believe the system is too cautious for a club expected to control games. Da Cruz says the formation has been determined by circumstances rather than a change in his footballing philosophy.

“There’s two things, sometimes related to availability, sometimes related to the opponent, back four, back five doesn’t impact our offensive game model, that’s the most important we want to keep our offensive ideas and principles in our game model,” he said.

Availability has been a particular concern for Chiefs. Da Cruz revealed that five players who can operate at left-back were injured only three matches into the new Betway Premiership season.

That shortage led him to move away from his usual four-man defence and use a back five in the 1-1 draw with Sundowns. Pule Mmodi was deployed as an emergency left wing-back in that match.

The 33-year-old has since earned praise from Da Cruz for adapting to the unfamiliar role. Mmodi has fitted into the system and started Chiefs’ past three matches, with the coach describing the winger as a useful option when the team lines up with five defenders.

Da Cruz planning a flexible system

Da Cruz has previously said that Chiefs are aiming to become a hybrid team, with their formation changing according to a range of factors. He has also made clear that the club will not use a back five throughout the entire season.

His latest comments reinforce that position. While the defensive structure may change from one game to the next, Da Cruz believes the team’s principles when in possession should remain consistent.

The coach has described Chiefs’ game model as an ongoing project. Following the opening victory over Kruger United, he said the players were enjoying the process, working hard to understand the approach and continuing to implement it.

The debate over Da Cruz’s tactics has intensified as results have placed him under increasing pressure. Chiefs’ winless run in all competitions reached five matches before the victory over TS Galaxy.

That result was followed by defeat in the Soweto Derby, after which sections of the club’s support called for Da Cruz to be dismissed. Sporting director Kaizer Motaung Junior has nevertheless said the club continues to have full confidence in the head coach, despite the pressure that followed their CAF Confederation Cup exit.

For Da Cruz, the formation is only one element of the team’s overall performance. Whether Chiefs defend with four players or five, he expects them to pursue the same attacking ideas. Their upcoming fixtures will determine whether the players can consistently carry out that plan and whether the results provide him with the time to continue developing it.