Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has detailed the crucial half-time tactical adjustments that neutralised Kruger United’s primary threat, Ntsako Makhubela, during their Betway Premiership opener at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday evening.
Amakhosi kicked off their 2026/27 campaign with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over the top-flight newcomers in front of a packed Mpumalanga crowd.
Despite making a dream start courtesy of an early strike from new signing Flavio Silva, the Soweto giants suffered a late first-half scare when Khetukuthula Ndlovu equalised for the home side on the stroke of half-time.
The setback prompted Da Cruz to make immediate changes at the break, introducing Wandile Duba for Silva, while Sibongiseni Mthethwa replaced Siphesihle Ndlovu to inject control into the engine room.
FERNANDO DA CRUZ ON STOPPING KRUGER’S MAIN DANGERMAN
Speaking to reporters after the match, Da Cruz admitted that Kruger United’s star player Makhubela caused his side serious structural issues during the opening 45 minutes.
“We conceded from the only real chance they created—the goal was a little bit lucky,” Da Cruz said. “But the main problem for us was their number 10 [Ntsako Makhubela]. He was constantly finding space behind our midfield line. So, our primary focus at half-time was to control him and block the passing lanes into those dangerous pockets. We executed that much better in the second half and limited their chances.”
PRAISE FOR CHIEFS’ BENCH IMPACT AND INTENSITY
The tactical tweak paid dividends as Chiefs regained total control of the contest, adding two second-half goals to secure all three points. Da Cruz praised his squad’s commitment and the seamless transition brought by his substitutes.
“First, I want to thank the players for their effort because they executed the game plan,” added the French tactician.
“The analysis is simple: we controlled the first 30 minutes, but lost our way in the final 15 minutes of the first half. In the second half, we restored our intensity and dictated the tempo.
“I am extremely happy with the players who came off the bench—they helped us maintain our high standard. Overall, we controlled 75 minutes of the match, but we know we must keep improving and working hard.”
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