Malatsi questions Kaizer Chiefs decision to keep faith with Da Cruz

Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Thabiso “Skapie” Malatsi has criticised the club’s decision to retain their support for head coach Fernando Da Cruz after their CAF Confederation Cup elimination.

Kaizer Chiefs confirmed over the weekend that Da Cruz continued to have the club’s backing despite the continental disappointment. Malatsi, however, believes the decision should have been reconsidered, particularly after the team had already been knocked out of the MTN8 earlier this season.

Speaking exclusively to the Siya crew, Malatsi also questioned Da Cruz’s tactical approach as Kaizer Chiefs prepare for two fixtures that could increase the pressure on the French coach.

Amakhosi host TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout Last 16 tonight before meeting defending champions Orlando Pirates in the Soweto Derby on Saturday.

“Look, as I am giving you this comment, I want to make it clear that it is my opinion, and I don’t expect it to be the same as everyone else’s. Regarding the decision taken by Kaizer Chiefs management to back the coach even after the team exited CAF, I don’t agree with that,” Malatsi said.

Malatsi points to second cup exit

The former midfielder said the CAF Confederation Cup exit needed to be considered alongside Kaizer Chiefs’ earlier departure from the MTN8, rather than viewed as an isolated setback.

“You must remember that this is the second time now that the club has exited a major cup competition, because it happened earlier in the season with the MTN8, and you would think that was already a sign,” he said.

Malatsi warned that the immediate schedule could leave Da Cruz facing significant scrutiny if Kaizer Chiefs suffer defeats in both matches.

“I believe that the coach is using the wrong strategy in coaching the team and in approaching matches. Tonight is another cup game, and imagine if he loses and then loses in the Soweto Derby. The pressure will just be too much for him to handle.

“The supporters won’t be happy, just like me, as a former player of the club. I believe there isn’t too much of a difference between him and (Nasreddine) Nabi, because if there was, there would be an improvement in the team’s performances and results.

“The coach is too defensive in his approach, and that alone makes me believe that he isn’t the right man for the Kaizer Chiefs job.”

Kaizer Chiefs’ meeting with TS Galaxy offers Da Cruz an immediate opportunity to respond on the pitch, with the Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates to follow on Saturday.