Wandile Dubas versatility delights new Kaizer Chiefs boss Fernando Da Cruz

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz believes Wandile Duba’s ability to operate both out wide and through the middle could be a major asset as the forward looks to reignite his career in the new season.

The 22-year-old, regarded as one of the most promising products of the Naturena academy, is coming off a difficult Betway Premiership campaign in which he struggled for consistency in front of goal, despite being regularly involved.

Duba made 18 league appearances last season, finishing with three goals and two assists as Chiefs once again fell short of their ambitions. Da Cruz, however, has been encouraged by what he has seen from the attacker since taking charge.

The Frenchman turned to Duba from the bench in the second half of the recent Toyota Cup clash against Scottland FC at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium, tasking him with adding impetus to the Amakhosi attack. Chiefs went on to secure a 1-0 win, with Duba helping to lift the team’s tempo in the closing stages.

Speaking after the match, Da Cruz underlined why he values the youngster’s profile so highly.

“He (Duba) is an interesting player because he can play also like a winger and forward. So it’s very interesting.

“I like to have a squad of players who can play in different positions,” said the new Amakhosi coach after the match.

“So it’s not because today he played as a winger that next few weeks he can’t play as a forward or striker.”

Da Cruz signals flexible plans for Duba

Da Cruz’s comments suggest Duba is unlikely to be tied to a single role this term, with the coach keen to use his movement and energy in several attacking positions depending on the opposition and match situation.

The forward’s capacity to drift wide or lead the line through the centre offers Chiefs tactical flexibility as they prepare for the 2026/27 domestic season, with the Soweto club eager to improve on last year’s underwhelming campaign.

For Duba, the challenge will be turning that versatility into end product after what was, by his standards, a modest return in front of goal. Chiefs view him as one of the key young players around whom the next phase of the squad can be built, but both player and club are aware that he now needs to translate potential into consistent performances.

Key role in season opener

Attention now turns to the opening fixture of the new Betway Premiership campaign, where Duba will hope to feature prominently and justify his coach’s faith.

Kaizer Chiefs begin their league season against Kruger United on Saturday, with kick-off scheduled for 20:15 at the Mbombela Stadium.

Da Cruz and the Amakhosi support will be eager to see whether Duba can use the platform of the league opener to signal a return to form and demonstrate the full range of qualities that first marked him out as one of Chiefs’ brightest rising stars.