Da Cruz says Chiefs are confident ahead of Soweto Derby

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz says his players go into Saturday’s Soweto Derby with belief, according to iDiski Times. The Frenchman will be taking charge of the fixture against Orlando Pirates for the first time.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Da Cruz described the fixture as “the most important game in South Africa”. He said it had sold out in six hours and called it one of the best matches in Africa.

Cup win lifts spirits

Amakhosi arrive at the derby after a 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout. iDiski Times reported that the result has given the club fresh energy following their elimination from the CAF Confederation Cup on penalties.

Pressure has been building on the coach. Da Cruz was backed by Chiefs’ Sporting Director after a run of five draws and only one win in the Betway Premiership, along with exits from the MTN8 and the CAF Confederation Cup.

The coach said the clean sheet and three goals against Galaxy had boosted morale. “When you score three goals and don’t concede you’ve got a lot of confidence,” he said. He added that Chiefs always want to improve, even after a win, and must hold on to that confidence in the derby.

Respect for Pirates

Da Cruz did not downplay the challenge. He said his team had trained well during the week and that he felt good, but acknowledged they face “a good team, a big team”. He also said the derby “divides the country” and is a positive occasion for South African football.

He congratulated Abdes on his work since arriving at Orlando Pirates, whom the source describes as Chiefs’ in-form Soweto rivals. “But we are ready for the game,” Da Cruz said.

What to know before Saturday

• The Soweto Derby is on Saturday, and the coach says tickets sold out in six hours.
• Chiefs have won one and drawn five of their recent Betway Premiership matches, according to the report.
• Their last outing was the 3-0 Carling Knockout win over TS Galaxy.

Supporters without tickets should rely on official club and broadcaster channels for match-day information.

This story is based on reporting by iDiski Times.