Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has explained why he decided to substitute Mfundo Vilakazi during the club’s 1-0 defeat to Red Arrows in the CAF Confederation Cup.

The decision to take Vilakazi off during the match raised questions among supporters, particularly because the young attacker had been one of Chiefs’ better performers on the day. Some fans may have felt that keeping him on the pitch could have helped the team create more attacking opportunities as they searched for a goal.

However, Da Cruz has defended his decision, explaining that Vilakazi was tired and needed to be replaced by a fresher player. According to the Chiefs coach, the substitution was made to give the team more energy as they attempted to compete against their opponents.

Speaking after the match, Da Cruz said: “Mfundo Vilakazi was tired, so we wanted a fresh player. It’s not after the substitution of Vilakazi that our team conceded a goal.”

The coach also rejected the suggestion that taking Vilakazi off was directly responsible for the team's defeat. He pointed out that Red Arrows scored from a corner kick and insisted that the goal should not be blamed on the substitution.

Da Cruz explained that Kaizer Chiefs continued trying to create scoring opportunities after falling behind, but found it difficult to break through the opposition's defence.

“It’s just one corner. After the goal, we tried again to create some chances, but it was a little bit difficult,” he added.

The coach further explained that he believed the team needed fresh legs because several players were struggling with fatigue. In his view, making substitutions was necessary to help Chiefs remain competitive during the closing stages of the match.

“Don't agree with the analysis because we needed more fresh players on the pitch because some of our players were tired,” Da Cruz said.

Despite his explanation, the decision to substitute Vilakazi is likely to remain a talking point among supporters. The young attacker has attracted attention for his technical ability and creativity, qualities that can be important when a team is trying to find a way back into a game.

However, the coach must also consider the physical condition of his players and decide when changes are necessary.

Kaizer Chiefs will now have to put the defeat behind them and focus on their next assignment as they look to improve their performances in the CAF Confederation Cup.

While Da Cruz has made his reasons clear, supporters will continue to assess whether his tactical decisions are helping the team achieve the results they need.

Source; https://www.facebook.com/100089878196925/posts/1075405038798759/?app=fbl