Da Cruz gives update on absence of Chiefs striker Mayo and Ighodaro
Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has provided clarity on the limited involvement of attackers Khanyisa Mayo and Etiosa Ighodaro following Amakhosi’s 2-1 Soweto Derby defeat to Orlando Pirates.
Speaking after the match at FNB Stadium, the Frenchman revealed that Mayo is close to a return but was not yet ready for the physical demands of a high-intensity derby, while Ighodaro continues to work on understanding the team’s tactical system.
“Mayo is not far, but today he was not physically ready to play this type of game. He must keep on working hard,” Da Cruz said. “He must walk into the game.”
The coach drew a distinction between the two players. While Mayo’s absence is primarily linked to match fitness after injury, Ighodaro’s situation is more tactical.
“For Ighodaro, at the moment he has a lack of understanding of our game model, but we are working with him and he could be another solution for us,” Da Cruz explained.
He stressed that both players need time, especially when facing opponents capable of maintaining intensity deep into matches.
“When we play teams like Pirates, we need to be physically ready. You see the last 20 minutes, they are full of intensity, they introduce fresh players with quality, so we must be ready.”
Orlando Pirates secured the three points through goals from Yanela Mbuthuma and Tshepang Moremi, leaving Chiefs reflecting on their ability to compete over the full 90 minutes.
Da Cruz’s comments underline the importance of both physical readiness and tactical alignment as Amakhosi look to strengthen their attacking options in the Betway Premiership.
With Mayo edging closer to availability and work continuing with Ighodaro, Chiefs will hope the pair can soon provide the additional quality and depth the coach believes they can offer.
