
Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasradine Nabi praised his players for their grit in securing a victory despite playing with 10 men. He also commented on the noticeable disparity in quality between his current squad and previous Amakhosi teams.
Chiefs bounced back in the Betway Premiership, overcoming Richards Bay 2-1 at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Wednesday, even while facing a numerical disadvantage during the second half.
With goals from Wandile Duba and Ashley Du Preez early in the second period, the team managed to secure all three points, climbing to sixth place in the league rankings.
In a post-match interview with SuperSport TV, the manager remarked that although they achieved a win, the team’s overall performance fell short of their higher standards.
“Winning is important, but the process must be effective. This is Kaizer Chiefs. Our aspirations are high. Mentally, it feels satisfying,” Nabi emphasized.
Even with two goals scored, the Glamour Boys struggled to maintain command of the game, managing only brief spells of possession.
The Tunisian coach raised concerns about the team’s inconsistency, drawing comparisons between the current players and club legends like Doctor Khumalo and Siphiwe Tshabalala.
“There were encouraging moments in the match, but we lack consistency. We must improve in the final third. While securing three points is crucial for the club, playing a half with 10 men is mentally challenging. It brings a sense of achievement, yet the process isn’t up to par. This is Kaizer Chiefs – remember the standards set by Tshabalala and Doctor Khumalo; that’s what we aim for,” reflected the former Young Africans coach.
In their match against the Natal Rich Boys, the Soweto giants had 18 attempts on goal, with only five on target and two converting into goals.
Converting scoring opportunities has been a persistent struggle for Chiefs since the start of the season, leading to frustrations.
The Chiefs coach acknowledged this ongoing challenge, attributing it to several factors, including a lack of confidence within the strikers, not just in the Chiefs team but throughout the league.
“This is indeed a pressing issue for our team, extending beyond this match. Teams are creating numerous opportunities without converting them, likely due to strikers’ confidence or focus. Nevertheless, we are committed to improving our principles as we move forward.”
Following their home win and entering a demanding schedule after a lengthy international break, Amakhosi will now prepare to face another KwaZulu-Natal side, hosting Royal AM this Saturday.