Fernando Da Cruz did not hide from the draw. The Kaizer Chiefs coach says a Carling Knockout semi-final against Mamelodi Sundowns is exactly the test his team needs.

Amakhosi reached the last four with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Siwelele FC at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Sunday, setting up a clash with Masandawana who edged Golden Arrows 1-0 in their quarter-final.

“We wanted to be qualified for the semifinals,” Da Cruz told reporters. “We knew if we qualified, we would have a big game.

“We need this type of game, our team needs to grow up, to mature. This is a good game for us, and we will play the game to qualify for the final.”

Chiefs have already shown they can hold Sundowns, drawing 1-1 at FNB Stadium in August.

Langelihle Phili scored for Amakhosi, and Cassius Mailula equalised for Masandawana.

Sunday was far from easy. Siyabonga Ndebele put Siwelele ahead, and Mduduzi Shabalala missed a penalty. He recovered to win another, which Wandile Duba converted just before half-time.

Da Cruz backed the midfielder.

“Missing a penalty can happen to all players,” he said. “It has happened before to the best players in the best competitions. He must get his head up and continue to work. He is a very important player, and we need him.”

The winner came from substitute Asanele Velebayi, who scored his first goal since joining Chiefs in 2025. Da Cruz praised his attitude despite limited game time, saying that attitude had delivered qualification.

Stellenbosch host cup holders Orlando Pirates in the other semi-final, leaving Chiefs with a big challenge in the quest for a place in the final.

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