Last weekend’s 1-0 loss to Zambia’s Red Arrows in the CAF Confederation Cup has put the Kaizer Chiefs hierarchy on edge.

Indications suggest Friday night’s second leg could determine Da Cruz’s future. Orlando Pirates host the game at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium at 18:00 this evening.

Amakhosi need to win by two goals or more without conceding.

KAIZER CHIEFS COACH FERNANDO DA CRUZ UNDER INCREASED PRESSURE 

“SoccerBeat understands Fernando Da Cruz’s future at Kaizer Chiefs is hanging in the balance following Saturday’s CAF Confederation Cup defeat to Red Arrows,” the outlet reported.

“Amakhosi are also believed to have identified a potential replacement should they decide to make a change.”

The Frenchman has been Kaizer Chiefs’ head coach since July. He replaced co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze.

PERFORMANCE OVER RESULTS 

Da Cruz has yet to lose in the Betway Premiership, winning three games and drawing five, but his team’s performances have left a lot to be desired.

The Frenchman has also invited a storm of criticism for repeatedly playing with a back five. 

Critics have questioned Da Cruz’s attacking decisions, particularly his stubborn reliance on a system without an attacking midfielder or number 10.

Fans and former players have also been left puzzled by the decisions to drop experienced strikers Flavio Da Silva and Etiosa Ighodaro in favour of false nines Luke Baartman and Wandile Duba.

KAIZER CHIEFS’ NEXT THREE FIXTURES

• Friday, 23 October 2026 (18:00) – Kaizer Chiefs vs Red Arrows F.C. in the CAF Confederation Cup.
• Tuesday, 27 October 2026 (19:00) – Kaizer Chiefs vs TS Galaxy F.C. in the Carling Knockout Cup.
• Saturday, 31 October 2026 (15:30) – Orlando Pirates vs Kaizer Chiefs in the Betway Premiership.

COACHING CHANGES

• Fernando Da Cruz (2026–present)
• Khalil Ben Youssef & Cédric Kaze (2025–2026)
• Nasreddine Nabi (2024–2025)
• Cavin Johnson (2023–2024, interim)
• Molefi Ntseki (2023)
• Arthur Zwane (2022–2023)
• Stuart Baxter (2021–2022.