Fernando Da Cruz explains Kaizer Chiefs’ tactical switch after Mamelodi Sundowns draw

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has explained his decision to switch to a back three against Mamelodi Sundowns, admitting his side had to find a solution to contain one of the country’s most established teams.

Chiefs played out a 1–1 draw with Sundowns at FNB Stadium on Saturday, with Langelihle Phili giving Amakhosi the lead before Cassius Mailula equalised for the visitors.

The result saw Chiefs remain at the top of the Betway Premiership standings after three matches, having collected two wins and a draw from their opening fixtures.

Da Cruz opted for a 5–3–2 formation, with Thabo Moloisane making his debut as Chiefs prioritised defensive stability against a Sundowns side renowned for dominating possession.

The Frenchman revealed the system was partly influenced by injuries within his squad, but also by the need to limit the spaces Sundowns could exploit.

“First of all, we set up this structure because we had players injured [and out] so we needed to find a solution for today,” Da Cruz said.

“Secondly, if we had let this team have space, it would’ve killed us so we needed to control space both in front and behind us.”

Despite the cautious approach, Da Cruz insisted the formation was not solely designed to defend.

He wanted Chiefs to remain capable of attacking when opportunities presented themselves, although he admitted they struggled to execute that part of the plan during the opening 45 minutes.

“But in this system, we prepared our team to be able to attack but we weren’t very good in possession in the first half but we were better in the second half,” he added.

The draw provided Da Cruz with another opportunity to assess his squad against one of the country’s most established teams, while Chiefs maintained their unbeaten start to the campaign.

However, when asked how close Chiefs are to competing with Sundowns on an equal footing, Da Cruz urged patience.

The coach pointed to the contrasting stages of the two projects, with Sundowns having enjoyed years of continuity while Chiefs are still adapting to a new technical approach.

“Lastly, we cannot compare the two teams because on one side you have Sundowns, a team that’s played together for the past six or seven years and we have just arrived,” he said.

“So give us time and we will improve step by step.”