CAF CONFEDERATION CUP
Smiso Msomi|Published
Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz has called for unity between the players, technical team and supporters as Amakhosi face the possibility of an early exit from the CAF Confederation Cup.
Chiefs suffered a 1-0 defeat to Zambian side Red Arrows in the first leg of their second preliminary round tie at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, leaving them with work to do in the return leg.
With the decisive encounter scheduled for Moses Mabhida Stadium next Friday, Da Cruz is counting on the club’s supporters to help inspire a turnaround and keep their continental campaign alive.
“We need them on Friday for the game to support us because I know that the team is able to reverse the result,” said Da Cruz.
The French coach stressed that difficult periods require everyone connected to the club to pull in the same direction, rather than allow the pressure to divide the team.
“What is most important is that in difficult moments we must stay united, players, staff, club and supporters to get through this period and get better results.”
Chiefs will need a more convincing attacking display after struggling to create clear-cut opportunities in Zambia. Da Cruz acknowledged that changes may be necessary if his side are to break down Red Arrows and overturn the deficit.
“For sure, we need to change something to create more chances. Normally, we create more chances in PSL,” he added.
The coach admitted that the first leg was unusual in terms of his team’s lack of attacking output, making it important for the technical staff to assess what went wrong before the return fixture.
“It’s the first time that we didn’t create a lot of chances, so we need to analyse and after we need to change something to be able to qualify.”
Chiefs now have the task of turning those words into action in front of their home supporters. They must win by at least two goals to secure qualification in regulation time, while a one-goal victory would take the tie to extra time if the aggregate score remains level.
For Da Cruz, the message is clear: Amakhosi need a collective response, both on the pitch and in the stands, if they are to avoid an early continental setback.