- Junior Khanye criticised Fernando Da Cruz's team selection and tactical approach after Kaizer Chiefs drew 1-1 with Stellenbosch FC at FNB Stadium
- The former winger set January as his predicted deadline for Da Cruz's tenure, warning that fixtures against Orlando Pirates and Sundowns could expose Chiefs
- Da Cruz missed his post-match press conference after falling ill, with assistant Dillon Sheppard confirming the coach was receiving medical attention
Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye has predicted that head coach Fernando Da Cruz will not see out the current season at Naturena, suggesting January as the likely point of departure if results do not improve.
Khanye made the remarks on iDiski TV following Amakhosi's 1-1 draw against Stellenbosch FC at FNB Stadium on Tuesday evening, a result that extended Chiefs' run of consecutive draws to three in the Betway Premiership.
**Khanye Questions Da Cruz's Tactical Approach**
The outspoken analyst placed responsibility for the dropped points squarely on the coach's shoulders, criticising both his team selection and his in-game decision-making. "Kaizer Chiefs coach must take the blame for tonight's draw. He must change the way he approaches games and his reading of the match. He needs to improve," Khanye said.
He argued that Da Cruz has had enough time to identify a settled starting eleven and establish a clear system. "He played three consecutive draws, and how he approaches games will be his downfall. By now, he should have his main starting eleven. His team needs to have balance in defence and attack," Khanye added.
Khanye also drew a direct line between Da Cruz and his predecessor Nasreddine Nabi, suggesting the former assistant had absorbed similar patterns of play. "Personally, I think Nasreddine Nabi, Cedric Kaze, Khalil Ben Youssef and Da Cruz are the same because this coach was Nabi's assistant. He is under pressure now, and I don't think supporters will allow another draw," he said.
**Upcoming Fixtures Could Prove Decisive**
With Chiefs supporters growing restless, Khanye warned that upcoming matches against title contenders Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns represent a serious test of Da Cruz's credentials. "I don't think he'll survive this season. I give him until January. The likes of Orlando Pirates and Sundowns will expose him," he said.
The analyst believes a strong cup run in the coming months may be Da Cruz's best chance of buying time, given the team's inconsistency in the league.
The coach did not appear before the media after the Stellenbosch draw. Assistant coach Dillon Sheppard addressed reporters in his place, explaining that Da Cruz had fallen ill during or after the match. "Coach has fallen ill. He was vomiting, so he is with the doctors, checking on him," Sheppard said.
Source: Briefly News