Fernando da Cruz, head coach of Kaizer Chiefs, expressed his belief that his team missed an opportunity to decisively defeat Orlando Pirates during Saturday’s Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium.
In a closely contested match, the Buccaneers emerged victorious, taking a 2-1 win and securing local bragging rights against their rivals.
The goals for Pirates were scored by Yanela Mbuthuma and Tshepang Moremi, while Pule Mmodi netted the lone goal for the Chiefs.
Early in the first half, Chiefs created two prime scoring opportunities, but Wandile Duba’s shot was brilliantly saved by Sipho Chaine, complicating matters for the Amakhosi.
Despite acknowledging the prowess of an experienced Pirates side, Da Cruz insisted that his team had the potential to secure a comfortable victory.
SOWETO DERBY: DA CRUZ BELIEVES KAIZER CHIEFS SHOULD HAVE OUTCLASSED ORLANDO PIRATES
“In the first half, we must have killed this game,” stated Da Cruz during an interview on SuperSport TV.
“Typically, a score of 2-0 or 3-0 would be expected; we noticed that Pirates’ goal was offside, and there might have been a case for a red card as well,” he elaborated.
“Had we scored two or three times, we would have effectively ended this contest,” Da Cruz added.
“In the second half, particularly in the last 20 minutes, our younger players struggled with the experience needed to create chances. We granted them opportunities that they could capitalize on,” he explained.
“We are aware of the areas that require improvement,” concluded Da Cruz.
WHERE DID IT GO AWRY FOR AMAKHOSI?
Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below…
Discussion about this post