Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz is relishing the opportunity to experience his first Soweto Derby as he prepares to lead Amakhosi against arch-rivals Orlando Pirates at the sold-out FNB Stadium on Saturday, October 31.
The Frenchman is excited about the historic encounter, which remains one of the biggest spectacles in South African football, but understands that his team will face a difficult challenge against an in-form Pirates side.
Speaking ahead of the much-anticipated Betway Premiership clash, Da Cruz expressed confidence in his team’s preparations, saying the players had worked hard during the week and were ready for the occasion.
“It’s the most important game in South Africa. Sold out in six hours, I believe it’s one of the best matches in Africa. It divides the country, and I think it’s a good game for the South African people,” said Da Cruz.
The Chiefs coach also acknowledged the quality of the opposition, congratulating Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou for the work he has done since joining the Buccaneers.
However, Da Cruz believes Amakhosi are ready to rise to the occasion as they seek to secure bragging rights against their fiercest rivals.
Chiefs head into Saturday’s encounter boosted by their convincing 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout last 16 on Tuesday. The result has lifted the team’s confidence after a difficult period that included their elimination from the CAF Confederation Cup.
Da Cruz believes scoring three goals without conceding has given his players the confidence they need ahead of the derby.
“We come to the game with a lot of confidence – when you score three goals and don’t concede, you’ve got a lot of confidence,” he said.
Nevertheless, the French tactician insists that his team must continue improving, even after a convincing victory.
The derby presents a significant test for Da Cruz, who joined Chiefs at the beginning of the season and is yet to experience the intensity of the rivalry from the dugout.
With the fixture attracting enormous interest from supporters across the country, the coach is eager to make a strong first impression in one of African football’s most celebrated rivalries.
The match also carries important implications for the Betway Premiership standings, with Chiefs looking to close the gap on their Soweto rivals.
For Amakhosi, victory would provide more than just three points. It would deliver a major boost to their confidence and offer their supporters the bragging rights that come with defeating Pirates.
However, Da Cruz knows that confidence alone will not be enough against a formidable opponent.
As the countdown to kick-off continues, the Chiefs coach will be hoping that his team’s recent improvement translates into a memorable performance on derby day.