Fernando da Cruz calls for unity as Kaizer Chiefs seek to rescue CAF campaign

The Soweto giants head into the second leg of their final qualifying round tie under pressure after suffering a 1-0 defeat to the Zambian side at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola on Saturday.

The defeat also extended Amakhosi's winless streak to four matches in all competitions, having recorded three consecutive draws in the Betway Premiership before their setback in Zambia.

With the team struggling to find positive results, Da Cruz believes everyone at the club must remain united as they attempt to navigate a difficult period.

"Most important in this period is that we must be together," he said at the post-match press conference.

"The staff, players, management fans, everyone (must be together). After this period, we will have better results."

While stressing the importance of unity, the Chiefs mentor also acknowledged that his side must improve their attacking output if they are to overturn the first-leg result.

Amakhosi struggled to create clear-cut opportunities in Ndola, prompting Da Cruz to admit that changes are needed ahead of the decisive encounter.

"For sure we need to change something to create more chances," he said.

"Normally we create a lot more chances in the PSL. This is the first time we have not created a lot, and we need to analyse and change something to be able to qualify."

The Glamour Boys will be desperate to deliver a stronger performance in front of their supporters, knowing that another disappointing result would end their hopes of reaching the Confederation Cup group stages.

After Friday's encounter, Amakhosi will shift their focus to the Carling Knockout Cup, where they are scheduled to face TS Galaxy in the last 16 at FNB Stadium on 27 October.