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Fernando Da Cruz needs to fix this in his team!

The Frenchman needs to improve a few things within his team.
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Fernando Da Cruz needs to fix this in his team!
Fernando Da Cruz needs to fix this in his team!

With Kaizer Chiefs having gone four matches without a victory, eyebrows are being raised about the French coach's tactical methods and his man-management skills.

Everything is on the line for Amakhosi in Friday's second leg at the Moses Mabhida Stadium as they chase a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup's last 16 group phase.

There's more to it than that, though. The Soweto giants might still be unbeaten in the Betway Premiership, but a record of three wins and five draws has turned up the heat on Da Cruz.

Fernando de Cruz has his own style

Da Cruz appears to have placed heavy importance on tactical discipline and structure. This approach has limited the individual quality and flair that are usually associated with Amakhosi and South African players.

While organisation can elevate local football to another level, local players still need space for improvisation in order to create opportunities and provide entertainment. Individual expression seems to be holding back Kaizer Chiefs' attacking players.

The 1-0 defeat to Arrows brought some of those concerns into sharp focus. Da Cruz has firmly stuck with three central defenders and two wingbacks who drop into a back five when defending.

There are calls for the former AS FAR coach to balance his tactical guidelines without limiting his team's ability to attack. Concerns are also growing about the players' negative body language. At times they look weighed down by tactical responsibilities and often seem too afraid to make mistakes.

Needs a simple improvement

Whether Da Cruz ultimately thrives at Naturena may well hinge on his man-management skills. He has to grasp what his players do best and grant them sufficient freedom to make their own decisions during matches.

The French coach also needs to adapt to South African football. His background in French and Moroccan football structures may have shaped his methods, but he must find an approach that fits this current environment and culture.

Hazem Mlhem

Hazem Mlhem |

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Hazem Mlhem est un rédacteur sportif expérimenté, animé par une passion pour le football africain.

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