Chiefs were beaten on penalties by Zambian side Red Arrows after missing a host of chances in the game that could have sent them through to the group stage.
The exit will immediately put Da Cruz under pressure from fans, but the club have moved swiftly to try to ease that pressure.
“At moments such as these, it is important to maintain perspective and remain committed to the long-term vision we have established for the Club,” Motaung Jnr said in a statement.

“Success in football is rarely defined by a single match or a single competition. It is built through consistency, resilience, and unwavering commitment to a clear sporting strategy.
“As a Club, we would like to reaffirm our full support for, and confidence in, the Head Coach and the entire technical team. They continue to have our trust as they lead the implementation of a football philosophy and development pathway that we firmly believe will bring sustainable success.
“Their professionalism, work ethic, and commitment to improving the team every day remain irreproachable. The team is fighting hard every game to uphold a high standard of performance, and despite the result and the injuries we carry, that warrior spirit was visible on the field.”
Chiefs have been involved in too many draws this season and a lack of firepower up front is the obvious issue, but Motaung Jnr says they are pleased with the progress of the team under Da Cruz.
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“We have made significant progress in key areas of our sporting project, and while setbacks are a natural part of any ambitious journey, they do not alter our conviction in the direction we are taking,” he said.
“We remain aligned behind our objectives, our playing identity, and our long-term plan for success both domestically and on the continent.
“Our responsibility is not to be guided solely by the emotion of an adverse result, but rather by careful analysis, stability, and strategic decision-making.
“We will continue to evaluate performances honestly, learn from this experience, and make the necessary improvements to ensure continued growth and competitiveness.”

Motaung Jnr had a final message for fans, calling for unity ahead of Saturday’s Soweto Derby.
“To our supporters, we acknowledge your disappointment and thank you for your steadfast passion and support. The standards at this institution remain as high as ever, and everyone within the football department is fully committed to meeting them.
“Now is the time for unity, not division. We believe in the work being done, we believe in the people leading that work, and we believe the foundations being laid today will deliver the success our supporters deserve.”
