According to iDiski Times on Monday, November 2, 2026, former Kaizer Chiefs player and football analyst Junior Khanye has questioned head coach Fernando Da Cruz's decision to leave Rushwin Dortley out of the starting line-up for the Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates.

The criticism follows Chiefs' disappointing 2-1 defeat to their bitter rivals at FNB Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The result handed Amakhosi their first Betway Premiership defeat of the season and extended their winless league run to four consecutive matches.

Pirates secured all three points through goals from Yanela Mbuthuma and Tshepang Moremi, while Pule Mmodi scored the only goal for Kaizer Chiefs. The victory gave the Buccaneers bragging rights and strengthened their position in the league standings.

Speaking on iDiski TV, Khanye expressed his surprise at Da Cruz's decision to exclude Dortley from the starting team, particularly after the defender delivered an impressive performance in Chiefs' 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout Cup.

Khanye believes the coach should have maintained the defensive partnership that performed well in the previous match instead of making unnecessary changes to the backline.

"The Chiefs coach made a blunder. I don't understand why he's putting Dortley outside," Khanye said.

He also questioned the lack of consistency in Da Cruz's team selection, arguing that players who deliver strong performances should be given another opportunity to build understanding and confidence.

"Where's the continuity as a team? Starting with the coach as a leader," he added.

The former Chiefs winger further explained that the defensive partnership involving Dortley and Moloisane had done enough to deserve another opportunity after keeping a clean sheet against TS Galaxy.

Khanye was particularly critical of the decision to start Inacio Miguel ahead of Dortley. He pointed out that Miguel was eventually sent off during the Soweto Derby, making the defensive selection even more questionable in his opinion.

He also questioned Miguel's positioning, describing the defender as more of a sweeper and suggesting that his tendency to arrive late in defensive situations was a concern.

Meanwhile, Da Cruz will be under pressure to address Chiefs' recent struggles as the team looks to return to winning ways.

Khanye's comments have added another talking point following the Soweto Derby, with questions emerging over the coach's team selection and the importance of maintaining consistency in the Kaizer Chiefs defence.

Source; https://www.facebook.com/100063605272742/posts/1779696884160470/?app=fbl