Kaizer Chiefs’ Da Cruz given star: ‘He is a special, talented player’

Kaizer Chiefs DDC coach Vela Khumalo is convinced that versatile attacker Steven Mendes has what it takes to make an impact for the senior team.

The youngster starred for Amajita who went all the way to winning the 2026 COCAFA competition, and an U20 Africa Cup of Nations, (AFCON) qualification. Despite being an attacking midfielder, Mendes was played as a striker and ended up scoring six goals.

Mendes’ exploits saw him win the Golden Boot which was not expected despite his talent. Khumalo insists that the teenager is talented, and has already proven that on the pitch. He now hopes he will get a chance to prove his worth for Fernandez Da Cruz’s team.

Mendes tipped to deliver for Chiefs senior team

“I think I must just take the opportunity to congratulate our under-20s for qualifying for AFCON,” Khumalo opened up about the 18-year-old.

“With the Mendes story, everybody’s talking about that. These are the five players that were part of our DDC. He’s a special player. He’s a top player, he’s going to make it big, I think he has grown in stature. He’s very talented. 

“It’s just a matter of time, he will also be knocking or being identified by the coaches to remain in the first team, in and out, train with the first team and all of that.

“But he’s a special player. He’s a talented player. This is good for our team,” the tactician concluded.

Mduduzi Shabalala, Mfundo Vilakazi, Wandile Duba and Aden McCarthy are some of the Amakhosi products who have delivered for the senior team.