Chiefs coach Da Cruz feeling confident ahead of first Soweto derby

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz is optimistic about his team's upcoming Soweto derby against Orlando Pirates on Saturday at the FNB Stadium. This marks Da Cruz's first experience of the atmosphere surrounding one of Africa's most significant rivalries. Despite not having faced this type of environment before, the Frenchman believes his team is prepared to take on the challenge.

"Yes, we are confident, but we know it’s a difficult game (vs Pirates)," Da Cruz stated. "It’s the most important game in South Africa. I think it’s one of the best games in Africa. It divides the country, and I think it’s a good moment for South African football." Da Cruz credits his team's recent 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout round of 16 for their current high spirits.

He hopes this momentum will continue on Saturday. "We come to the game with a lot of confidence – when you score three goals and don’t concede, you’ve got a lot of confidence," he explained. "But we always want to improve the team, even when we win. So we must keep this confidence when we go to the derby." Meanwhile, Arsenal legend Thierry Henry will be in attendance at the derby, eager to experience the electrifying atmosphere at FNB Stadium.