Drawing Sundowns in the Carling KO semis a measure of Chiefs’ growth – Da Cruz

Chiefs came back from a goal down early in the first half to score two goals in either half, with Asanele Velebhayi’s strike six minutes before full-time sealing the result as they beat Siwelele FC 2-1 in the quarterfinal at New Peter Mokaba stadium last night. 

Chiefs have now been handed a tough draw against Sundowns, which is exactly what the doctor ordered according to Da Cruz...

"We really wanted to qualify for the semifinals, and we knew if we did that we would be involved in a big game. We need this kind of game against Sundowns for the team to continue to grow."

READ: Stellenbosch steal late victory in Carling Knockout clash against AmaZulu

Da Cruz also says it was a deserved comeback win for Chiefs to reach the semi-finals for the first time this season, after they were eliminated early on in the MTN8.

It looked like it would be another long night for Chiefs, as Mduduzi Shabalala missed a crucial penalty in the first half, but he dusted himself off and quickly won his club a second penalty closer to halftime, which Wandile Duba converted. 

It was also the second time Da Cruz handed Rushwin Dortley a starting berth, and he’s happy with the balance Dortley has brought to the defense. 

"Dortley is a great option for us and he will remain an option for us in the future, he is great with his head, and with him fit and healthy we have many options now in our defence."

Chiefs are also hoping to use the international break to fast-track the readiness of newly signed Bafana Bafana winger Elias Mokwana, with the hope that he will be ready for the Sundowns game. Da Cruz will also be hoping for the return of SA U23 international Langelihle Phili, who has also been recovering from an injury...