Kaizer Chiefs’ board will expect Fernando Da Cruz to guide the club to at least a runners-up finish during his tenure, with success in a cup competition also regarded as a priority.
A top-two position would return Kaizer Chiefs to CAF competition and help restore the club’s relevance on the continent. The demand places added pressure on Da Cruz as he begins his time in charge of the Glamour Boys.
The club have already missed one chance to make progress in a cup competition after their MTN8 disappointment. However, Chiefs remain unbeaten in the Betway Premiership and have made a positive start to their league campaign.
They defeated Kruger United and Sekhukhune before drawing 1-1 with Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday. The result left Kaizer Chiefs with seven points from a possible nine and at the top of the early league table.
The Glamour Boys will return to action away to Richards Bay on Wednesday, 26 August, with kick-off scheduled for 19:30.
Despite their unbeaten beginning, Chiefs are two points behind their total at the equivalent stage last season. They won their opening three league matches in that campaign, setting a higher early benchmark than the one they have reached this time.
The board’s expectations mean Da Cruz’s progress will be judged not only by results in the opening weeks, but also by whether Kaizer Chiefs can sustain a challenge near the top of the table and compete successfully for silverware.
The available information does not state that the board will automatically dismiss Da Cruz if those targets are not met. It does, however, make clear that a top-two finish and a cup triumph are central expectations during his tenure.
Ngcobo’s uncertain future
Nkosingiphile Ngcobo’s future remains unclear after he was left as an unused substitute in the 1-1 draw with Mamelodi Sundowns.
The midfielder’s omission has added to uncertainty around his position at the club, although no decision about his future has been confirmed.
Kaizer Chiefs’ immediate focus will now be on the trip to Richards Bay, where they will attempt to maintain their unbeaten start and close the gap on last season’s early league record.
The result will also provide another opportunity for Da Cruz to demonstrate that the team can meet the standards set by the board, with the longer-term objectives of continental football and cup success already established.
The club’s current league position offers encouragement, but the early table remains in its formative stages. Chiefs have seven points from three matches, while their campaign still has a long way to run.
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