Fernando Da Cruz Offers Kaizer Chiefs Injury Update Ahead of Sekhukhune and Sundowns Tests
Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has provided an important injury update as Amakhosi entered a demanding period of the 2026/27 season, with Sekhukhune United and Mamelodi Sundowns presenting major tests.
Da Cruz admitted that injuries to key players had complicated his selection plans, particularly in the left-back position. Ahead of the Sundowns clash, Chiefs were dealing with a growing list of unavailable defenders.
Nkanyiso Shinga, Paseka Mako, Bradley Cross, Kabelo Nkgwesa and Reeve Frosler were all unavailable, leaving Da Cruz without a recognised left-back.
The situation forced the coach to make tactical adjustments, including using Pule Mmodi deeper on the left and reshuffling his defensive structure against Sundowns.
Da Cruz explained that the injuries left his technical team with little choice but to find an alternative solution in a very short period.
«“All the left-backs are injured. We were unlucky in the last few days in the left full-back position,” Da Cruz explained.»
The coach had already warned that the fixture schedule would test the depth of his squad. Chiefs faced three matches in six days, making the availability of key players particularly important.
Despite the setbacks, Chiefs showed resilience. They defeated Sekhukhune United 2-0 before holding Mamelodi Sundowns to a 1-1 draw at FNB Stadium, maintaining their unbeaten start to the league campaign.
For Da Cruz, the early-season injury problems have become another challenge as he attempts to establish his philosophy at Naturena.
“It will be a tough week for us,” the coach said while stressing the importance of having the entire squad available during the congested schedule.
With several defenders still recovering, Chiefs will be hoping the medical team can return some of their options soon as Da Cruz looks to strengthen the squad and maintain the positive start to his tenure.
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