Da Cruz explains Kaizer Chiefs’ tactical 5-2-3 system switch

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has explained why he has used two different systems this season.

Under the French coach, Amakhosi have primarily used a 4-3-3 formation, with three defensively minded midfielders providing protection in the middle of the park.

However, against Siwelele on Sunday, Da Cruz switched to a 5-2-3 system as Chiefs claimed a 3-2 victory.

The tactical change saw Chiefs start with Fiaz Abrahams, Wandile Duba and Mfundo Vilakazi leading the attack.

Speaking to the media about the switch, Da Cruz explained that the change was largely influenced by injuries rather than a complete departure from his preferred approach.

“For the moment, I’m happy we’re able to play two systems, but for the moment it’s related to the injured players. Sometimes it will also depend on the opponent and the different profile of players,” he told the media.

Da Cruz enjoying life as Chiefs coach

The victory moved Kaizer Chiefs up to third place in the Betway Premiership, with their attack and midfield proving to be among the more impressive aspects of their campaign so far.

Their defensive performances remain a concern however as they only kept one clean sheet in six matches. Despite creating numerous chances and scoring three goals against Siwelele, Chiefs once again conceded twice, continuing a trend that has frustrated Da Cruz.

The coach believes his team is lacking leadership and personality in the defensive line and insists there is plenty of work to be done.

“We created a lot of chances, but we didn’t score, so after that you can make mistakes because you’re not enough killer in the two boxes, either offensively or defensively.

“We have a lack of leadership, lack of character in our defensive line, a lack of personality in our defensive line, so we need to correct that and work a lot,” Da Cruz said after Sunday’s win.

If Chiefs are to win a trophy this season, Da Cruz need to fix the leaking defence.