Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando da Cruz has given a review of the pre-season camp they had in Spain, where they played three friendly matches.
The Soweto giants are back in South Africa after spending just over a week in the European country. They drew 1-1 with Scottish giants Rangers FC and posted a similar result against Saudi Pro League side Al Kholood.
In wrapping up their tour of Spain, Amakhosi then lost 2-1 to La Liga outfit Elche CF. It was an opportunity for Da Cruz to assess his team after taking charge of Chiefs at the beginning of July, as he replaced previous co-coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef.
New signings Thabo Moloisane and Renaldo Leaner had some game time, while the likes of Luke Baartman, Etiosa Ighodaro and Reeve Frosler, who did not see much action last season, had an opportunity to impress Da Silva.
Amakhosi’s DStv Diski Challenge star Kabelo Nkgwesa will now be hoping to enjoy more playing minutes under the Frenchman after featuring in the Chiefs friendlies.
FERNANDO DA CRUZ ON WHAT KAIZER CHIEFS GAINED IN SPAIN
Weather conditions in Spain were punishing, according to the Chiefs coach, but that was not a drawback for the team to shape up ahead of the upcoming season.
“The conditions at the training camp were very good despite the extreme heat, which affected us in playing three games in the short space of six days,” Da Cruz told Chiefs’ media team. “Nevertheless, we were competitive in these matches against high-level teams, which gave us valuable insights to learn from. The attitude and team spirit were excellent, and we have made good progress in our preparations.”
Last season, Chiefs went to the Netherlands for pre-season training, but this time around, they opted for Spain. Club Sporting Director, Kaizer Motaung Jr explained the decision to return to Europe and play against non-African opposition.
“The idea of the camp in Spain was about taking the team away from home to experience a different environment with unfamiliar conditions, integrating the new technical team and also working on induction details for getting the team ready for the season,” said Motang Jr.
“Playing practice matches against opponents from various leagues around the world proved worthwhile in helping the team adapt to different styles of play and, with the help of our mental coach, who worked on the psychological aspects of the game and team-building exercises, we achieved all of our intended goals.”
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