KAIZER CHIEFS BOMBSHELL! Da Cruz Makes Galaxy Clash His Priority Before Soweto Derby

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — 26 October 2026

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando da Cruz is facing a defining week as the Soweto giants prepare for a crucial Carling Knockout encounter against TS Galaxy before turning their attention to arch-rivals Orlando Pirates.

Despite the enormous anticipation surrounding the upcoming Soweto Derby, Da Cruz has made it clear that his immediate priority is the clash against Galaxy, insisting that securing progression in the cup competition is more important than looking ahead to the weekend’s blockbuster fixture.

Amakhosi will host TS Galaxy at FNB Stadium on Tuesday, 27 October, in a Carling Knockout Round of 16 encounter. The match comes at a difficult time for the club following its painful elimination from the CAF Confederation Cup.

Chiefs defeated Zambia’s Red Arrows 1-0 in the second leg of their qualifying tie on Friday, but the teams finished level on aggregate before the Soweto giants lost 3-2 in the penalty shootout.

The continental disappointment has increased the pressure on Da Cruz, who must now find a way to lift his players ahead of two important domestic fixtures.

Da Cruz Focuses on Galaxy

For the French tactician, the immediate objective is straightforward: beat TS Galaxy and keep Chiefs’ hopes of winning silverware alive.

The Carling Knockout represents another opportunity for Amakhosi to deliver a trophy to their demanding supporters after failing to defend their Nedbank Cup crown last season.

Da Cruz previously emphasised that the next match should always take priority, explaining that the cup competition could help his team establish a more positive dynamic.

His approach reflects the importance of avoiding distractions at a time when Chiefs need results to restore confidence and improve their performances.

Galaxy, however, cannot be underestimated. The Mpumalanga-based outfit famously stunned Chiefs with a 1-0 victory in the 2019 Nedbank Cup final, creating one of the biggest upsets in South African football history.

That result remains a reminder that cup football can produce unexpected outcomes, regardless of the reputation or resources of the teams involved.

Soweto Derby Pressure Builds

Following Tuesday’s encounter, Chiefs will prepare for their highly anticipated Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates on Saturday, 31 October.

The derby carries enormous significance for supporters of both clubs, but Chiefs must first navigate the Galaxy challenge if they want to approach the weekend with renewed confidence.

Another cup setback would intensify scrutiny of Da Cruz, particularly after the Confederation Cup exit and a series of frustrating league results.

Chiefs management has publicly reaffirmed its support for the coach and his technical team, maintaining that the club remains committed to its long-term football philosophy.

Nevertheless, the coming matches provide Da Cruz with an important opportunity to demonstrate progress on the pitch.

For Amakhosi, the message is clear: overcome TS Galaxy first, then focus on the battle against Pirates. The results of this decisive week could shape the direction of their season.

Source https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2114688702819512563