Fernando Da Cruz Targets League Improvement as Kaizer Chiefs Begin Spain Pre-Season Tour

Kaizer Chiefs have officially begun preparations for the 2026/27 season, with new head coach Fernando Da Cruz making it clear that his ambition is to build on the club’s encouraging third-place finish from last season. The Amakhosi opened their pre-season tour in Spain with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Scottish giants Rangers, providing an early glimpse into the direction the French-born coach hopes to take the team. The result marked the beginning of an important phase for Chiefs as they prepare for another demanding domestic campaign while also returning to continental football. Da Cruz has arrived with renewed optimism and a determination to help one of Africa’s biggest clubs compete consistently for major honours. His message to players and supporters is one of commitment, belief and the pursuit of success.

The 54-year-old coach is no stranger to Kaizer Chiefs, having previously spent a brief period with the club in 2024. Returning to Naturena as head coach has given him the opportunity to continue the work he started while embracing a much bigger leadership role. Da Cruz expressed his appreciation for the warm reception he has received since his return, saying he enjoyed working at the club previously and was delighted to be back. His familiarity with the environment has allowed him to settle into his new position quickly. The coach believes the positive atmosphere at the club will help create the foundation for a successful campaign.

Da Cruz also praised the facilities available at the Kaizer Chiefs Village in Naturena, highlighting the club’s commitment to providing a professional environment for players and staff. According to the coach, the training grounds, gymnasium and overall infrastructure are all in excellent condition and provide everything required to prepare a competitive team. Modern facilities are an essential part of player development, injury prevention and tactical preparation throughout a long season. The coach’s positive assessment reflects his confidence that the club possesses the resources needed to compete at the highest level. His satisfaction with the working environment also reinforces his belief that Chiefs are moving in the right direction.

One of Da Cruz’s biggest priorities is improving on the club’s third-place finish in the Betway Premiership last season. While securing a place in the CAF Confederation Cup represented important progress, the coach believes Kaizer Chiefs should be competing for league titles and domestic trophies on a regular basis. He acknowledged the faith placed in him by Chairman Dr. Kaizer Motaung and Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr., expressing gratitude for the opportunity to lead the club. Da Cruz promised to give his absolute best as he seeks to repay that trust through hard work and positive results. His commitment underlines the high expectations surrounding his appointment.

The coach also spoke passionately about the size and history of Kaizer Chiefs, recognizing the enormous responsibility that comes with leading South Africa’s most supported football club. He emphasized that the club’s fan base extends well beyond South Africa, with millions of supporters across the African continent. Da Cruz wants his players to start the new season strongly in order to reward those loyal supporters with performances they can be proud of. Building confidence early in the campaign could prove vital as the team competes across several competitions. The coach believes a positive beginning can set the tone for sustained success throughout the season.

Kaizer Chiefs are currently holding their pre-season camp in Spain, where they are preparing for the physical and tactical demands of the upcoming campaign. The European training camp provides an ideal environment for intensive fitness work, tactical drills and competitive friendly matches. Da Cruz described the conditions in Spain as excellent despite the hot weather, saying they offer the perfect setting for the squad to improve. Facing quality international opposition will also help the coaching staff assess the team’s strengths and identify areas that still require attention. Every training session and friendly match forms part of the club’s broader strategy to ensure the squad is fully prepared before the season begins.

The opening friendly against Rangers offered several encouraging signs despite ending in a 1-1 draw. Kaizer Chiefs took the lead through Etiosa Ighodaro, who found the back of the net with an impressive finish during the match. Rangers eventually equalized in the 89th minute after both teams made numerous substitutions throughout the game. While the result was not a victory, the performance provided valuable experience against strong opposition. Pre-season matches are often less about the final score and more about improving tactical understanding, player fitness and squad cohesion.

The Spain tour will continue with two more challenging fixtures that should further test the squad. Chiefs are scheduled to face Saudi Pro League side Al Kholood before concluding the tour against Spanish La Liga club Elche. These matches will expose the players to different styles of football and provide further opportunities for Da Cruz to refine his tactical approach. Playing against quality international opponents allows the coaching staff to evaluate how well the team adapts under pressure. The experience gained from these encounters could prove invaluable once competitive football resumes.

Supporters remain a central part of Da Cruz’s vision for the new season. The coach called on the Amakhosi Faithful to stand behind the team as they begin a fresh chapter under his leadership. He acknowledged that winning silverware requires unity between the players, coaching staff and supporters throughout the campaign. Strong backing from the fans can provide additional motivation, particularly during difficult moments in the season. Da Cruz believes the passion and loyalty of the Kaizer Chiefs supporters can help inspire the team to reach its full potential.

Fernando Da Cruz has begun his tenure at Kaizer Chiefs with confidence, ambition and a clear plan for the future. His focus on improving last season’s league performance, competing for trophies and building a winning culture reflects the expectations associated with one of Africa’s biggest football clubs. The encouraging draw against Rangers has provided a positive starting point as the squad continues its preparations in Spain before facing Al Kholood and Elche. With a talented squad, quality facilities and the return of continental football, Chiefs have an opportunity to build on the progress made last season. If Da Cruz successfully implements his vision and maintains the support of the Amakhosi Faithful, the 2026/27 campaign could mark the beginning of an exciting new era for Kaizer Chiefs.