Luke Baartman reacts to impressive form under Fernando da Cruz

Kaizer Chiefs attacker Luke Baartman has reacted to his impressive form under newly appointed head coach Fernando da Cruz in the early stages of the 2026/27 campaign.

The 20-year-old forward signed for the Glamour Boys at the beginning of the previous season, but found game time hard to come by as he was limited to 168 minutes in seven appearances across all competitions.

His debut, however, was delayed by a dispute against Cape Town Spurs, who felt entitled to a transfer fee for the player's move to Naturena despite losing their professional status by virtue of suffering relegation to the third-tier.

Now, the player has been entrusted by da Cruz, who has started him in all four matches this season, with the Amajita star repaying the Frenchman's vote of confidence with a goal in the 2-0 win over Sekhukhune United.

“It has been a good start to the season. It's always great to win early on to bolster the momentum of the team," Baartman told www.kaizerchiefs.com after scoring his maiden goal for the club against Babina Noko.

"I just want to thank the coach and his technical team for giving me the opportunity to start the game and believing in me.

"Scoring the goal was a very proud moment for me. I am grateful to my teammates for helping me to get my first goal and I wish to score many more.

Baartman went on to hail the passionate Amakhosi faithful for rallying behind the team every matchday, and says the players always aim to show gratitude by delivering positive results on the pitch.

“Our supporters are amazing, always turning out in big numbers and being there for us. It is comforting to know they have our backs and we try to reciprocate by giving our best every time we step onto the field,” he added.

Chiefs, meanwhile, return to action with a Betway Premiership clash against Richards Bay away from home on Wednesday, 26 August, as they look to maintain their unbeaten run in the league.

Hlayisani Magoro

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Football journalist from South Africa covering African football news, exclusive stories and key events while sharing insights with passionate fans of the game.

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