Kaizer Chiefs boss Fernando Da Cruz explains 5-2-3 switch

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz says injuries, opponents and the players available to him have driven the club’s move away from their usual 4-3-3 formation.

The South African side have now deployed a 5-2-3 system in each of their past three matches, including Sunday’s 3-1 victory over Siwelele FC. Despite the change, Da Cruz insists it is not a permanent tactical decision and says Chiefs remain capable of reverting to their original shape.

Chiefs began the season using a 4-3-3, but the demands created by injuries have led Da Cruz to adjust his approach. He added that the opposition and the different profiles of his players would also be considered when deciding how his team should line up.

“For the moment, I’m happy we’re able to play two systems but for the moment it’s related to the injured players so sometimes it will also depend on the opponent and the different profile of players,” he told the media.

The French coach’s comments indicate that Kaizer Chiefs have not abandoned the 4-3-3. Instead, their use of the 5-2-3 reflects an attempt to respond to the circumstances surrounding each match.

That flexibility has so far coincided with an unbeaten start to the league campaign. Sunday’s win over Siwelele FC gave Chiefs three victories and two draws from their opening five league matches, keeping them within the leading group.

Da Cruz, however, says the club will not commit itself to one formation for the rest of the season. The coach believes the team’s tactical choices must remain dependent on the conditions facing them.

“We want to be a good team but it will depend on the perimeters but no we will not play the system the entire season.”

With injured players expected to return and each opponent presenting different challenges, Chiefs may continue to alternate between the two systems as the campaign develops.

The decision to use three central defenders and two wing-backs in the 5-2-3 has therefore been presented as a practical response, rather than a permanent change in identity. Da Cruz’s priority is to ensure his side can adapt while continuing their strong start.

Kaizer Chiefs’ next match will be an away tie against Polokwane City next Saturday.