Kaizer Chiefs coach admits defensive concerns despite unbeaten start

Kaizer Chiefs may still be unbeaten after five Betway Premiership matches, but their coach Fernando da Cruz has admitted there are clear concerns within his defensive unit.

Chiefs’ 3-2 victory over Siwelele FC at Dobsonville Stadium on Sunday extended their unbeaten start to three wins and two draws.

However, they have conceded six goals in those five matches, something their coach believes needs to be addressed quickly.

“We have a lack of leadership, a lack of character and personality in our defensive line and we need to correct that,” he told SuperSport TV. 

It is a frank assessment from a coach whose team has otherwise made a positive start to the campaign.

Chiefs have scored 11 goals in their five league matches, showing they have enough firepower to win games. But their defensive record suggests they are giving opponents opportunities that could eventually cost them points.

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The coach was particularly concerned by the number of chances being conceded.

“In the first half we created chances but we couldn’t score enough and in the second half, they got two chances and they scored both chances so we have an issue about that, we have to stop giving away chances to the opponents,” he said.

That issue becomes even more important as the quality of opposition increases.

Chiefs have managed to remain unbeaten despite conceding more goals than they would ideally want. 

Their attacking output has helped them overcome those problems, but relying on that throughout the season could prove risky.

Our defence is costing us badly. We gave away points against Sundowns and Richards Bay through our own mistakes, and unfortunately, nothing seems to be changing. We can’t keep playing like this and expect positive results.

— Mademoiselle (@NthabisengSingo) September 6, 2026

The coach’s comments also put the spotlight on the experience and leadership within the defensive line.

For now, Chiefs are collecting points and remain unbeaten.

But if they are serious about challenging near the top of the table, tightening up at the back will be just as important as continuing to find goals at the other end.