According to KickOff Magazine, Mfundo Vilakazi has explained how a half-time intervention from Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz helped the team recover from an early setback and defeat Siwelele FC 2-1 in the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-finals.

Chiefs secured their semi-final place at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Sunday in front of their supporters. Siwelele took the lead in the 11th minute when Siyabonga Ndebele headed in from a corner.

Despite having possession, Amakhosi struggled to respond. Their first opportunity to draw level came in the 36th minute after Vilakazi was brought down inside the box. Mduduzi Shabalala took the penalty but sent his attempt over the crossbar.

Chiefs were given another chance from the spot in first-half stoppage time. Shabalala won the penalty, and Wandile Duba converted to bring the teams level before the interval.

Vilakazi said Da Cruz used the break to remind the players that their performance was good. The coach urged them to stay composed, trust their approach and make better decisions near the opposition goal instead of allowing pressure to dictate their play. With the score at 1-1, the instruction was to remain patient rather than force a winner.

The advice shaped Chiefs' second-half approach as they continued looking for openings. Da Cruz made a double substitution in the 75th minute, bringing on Asanele Velebayi and Flavio Da Silva for Shabalala and Duba.

The changes produced the decisive moment nine minutes later. Da Silva took advantage of a defensive error and supplied Velebayi, who finished in the 84th minute to put Chiefs ahead. Siwelele could not find an equaliser before the final whistle.

Vilakazi recognised the support the team receives from its followers and urged them to remain patient through difficult periods. He said the players understood their responsibility to keep working and give supporters reasons to celebrate.

Chiefs now turn their attention to a semi-final meeting with Mamelodi Sundowns. The tie will test the progress made under Da Cruz, but the comeback against Siwelele has given Amakhosi a place in the last four and another opportunity to pursue the trophy.

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