Has Da Cruz been found out? Pitso reveals best way to beat Kaizer Chiefs

Golden Arrows coach Pitso Dladla has provided an insight into how his team was able to nullify Kaizer Chiefs’ threats and nearly beat them.

Dladla expressed satisfaction with his team’s defensive performance following a 0-0 draw against Chiefs in a Betway Premiership match at Mbombela Stadium on Sunday.

Despite the goalless outcome, Dladla believed his side had carved out the superior chances and was unlucky not to secure all three points.

He revealed that Arrows had specifically prepared to exploit the tactical setup of Chiefs, who fielded three central defenders and aggressive full-backs.

Pitso Dladla on exploiting Chiefs’ weaknesses

“We planned very well, especially for how we were going to open them up in front,” Dladla explained in a post-match interview with SuperSport.

The coach highlighted two key moments from the match that demonstrated his team’s strategy in action, pointing to specific crossing opportunities that nearly broke the deadlock.

“If you can remember Sithole’s cross, where Dion connected well, it is something we worked on,” he said. “It was similar to Renaldo’s cross, where Alwande did not connect well.”

“We knew that if we stayed wide, they would be open in the box. We created clearer chances than them, so I thought we deserved at least maximum points this afternoon,” Dladla added.

Kaizer Chiefs forward Luke Baartman controls the ball against Golden Arrows. Image: Kaizer Chiefs

Why Da Cruz has insisted on back three

The draw, which included a missed penalty, saw Chiefs drop more points in their campaign. However, Dladla chose to focus on the positives for his own team, particularly the clean sheet, which he saw as a sign of progress.

While pleased with the defensive solidity, he emphasised the need for his players to start converting their opportunities into wins.

Kaizer Chiefs players Mfundo Vilakazi and Lebohang Maboe playing against Kaizer Chiefs. Image: Kaizer Chiefs

“We know what we are working on as a team and the areas we need to improve,” he concluded.

Dladla’s observation comes at a time when Chiefs coach Fernando da Cruz is facing calls to revert to a back four in the wake of his team’s struggles since he moved to a back three.

The French coach has, however, insisted that the tactical setup is necessary due to the many injuries he has in defence.