Fernando Da Cruz hails Kaizer Chiefs' tactical response after Kruger United test

The Frenchman secured a winning league debut a week after lifting the Toyota Cup against Zimbabwean side Scottland FC, but he was particularly encouraged by how his team responded to challenges during the game rather than just the result.

Chiefs started strongly and went on to score three goals in an opening league fixture for the first time since the 2019/20 season, when they beat Highlands Park 3-2.

However, Da Cruz admitted that his side lost control towards the end of the first half after Kruger United exploited space between the lines.

"At halftime, I asked our midfielders to take turns tracking that number 10 more effectively because he was finding space behind them and putting us under pressure," he explained.

"We managed that much better in the second half, and as a result, they were far less dangerous."

The tactical adjustment proved decisive, with Chiefs regaining control after the break and limiting Kruger United's attacking threat while adding to their own advantage.

Da Cruz said the response highlighted the players' growing understanding of in-game demands as they continue to adapt to his system.

"Hard work - that's what I've brought. We've worked extremely hard, especially throughout pre-season," he said.

"We have a clear playing philosophy and an established game model, with certain adjustments depending on the opposition."

Attention now shifts to the MTN8 quarter-finals, where Chiefs will face Golden Arrows as Da Cruz looks to build momentum in the early stages of his reign.