The Kaizer Chiefs top brass will expect big things from manager Fernando Da Cruz. If he doesn’t deliver, he won’t be around for long.
Da Cruz won’t get too much leniency at Kaizer Chiefs
Chiefs’ board will insist that Fernando Da Cruz elevates Chiefs to at least a runners-up spot during his tenure there. That would take them back into CAF competition and make them relevant on the continent again. Success in a cup competition will also be a priority. After MTN8 heartbreak, they’ve already lost one opportunity on that front. On the plus side, Chiefs remain unbeaten in the Betway Premiership. They’ve won matches against Kruger United and Sekhukhune, and held Sundowns to a 1-1 draw. Seven points from a possible nine see Chiefs sit atop the embryonic table. Next up for the Glamour Boys is a trip to Richards Bay on 26 August. Let’s remind ourselves that Chiefs won their opening three league clashes last term.
Eight goals in nine years for Ngcobo
Nkosingiphile Ngcobo’s dismal Chiefs stats merit a closer look. The attacking midfielder hasn’t managed more than two goals in a single season since the 2020-21 campaign. He’s only scored two goals in his last three Betway Premiership seasons combined, and wasn’t involved at all against Sundowns in a recent 1-1 draw. The writing could be on the wall for Mshini after nine years in the senior side. The 26-year-old joined the first team in 2017 from the youth setup. He’s made 129 appearances in the jersey, scoring eight goals and supplying three assists. Obviously goals aren’t the only currency in football, but attacking midfielders need to be weighing in with more than this.
