Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi has called for patience from the club’s supporters after yet another disappointing result in the Betway Premiership. Chiefs suffered a 2-1 defeat against Golden Arrows in Durban over the weekend, a match they largely controlled but failed to capitalise on their chances.
Nabi admitted that the club is in a challenging position, sitting eighth on the table with 10 defeats in 23 matches. Despite dominating possession (57%) and outshooting their opponents (11 shots to seven), Amakhosi failed to convert their opportunities, which ultimately cost them the match.
Tough Loss and Injury Setbacks
Speaking after the match, Nabi described the defeat as difficult to accept. “It’s a very tough loss and puts the team in a difficult position. The fans have no joy,” he told SABC Sport.
Chiefs went behind early, conceding a goal in the 25th minute to Nduduzo Sibiya. However, they responded quickly, equalising four minutes later through Yusuf Maart. Despite showing promise, an injury to Thabo Cele in the first half disrupted their rhythm, and a late goal from Knox Mutizwa sealed their fate.
“The injury to Thabo Cele disorganised us a bit in the second half. We struggled to connect our defence and attack effectively,” Nabi added.
Nasreddine Nabi Calls for Patience
With only seven league matches remaining, Chiefs still have an opportunity to climb the table. Their 29-point tally leaves them just six points behind third-placed Stellenbosch FC. However, given their inconsistency, a strong finish is becoming less likely.
Nabi emphasised that while the team is creating chances, their failure to convert them has been costly. “The fans need to understand that we had good moments in the first half and should have scored. When you don’t take your chances, you suffer the consequences,” he said.
Kaizer Chiefs’ Injury Woes
To make matters worse, the team is facing several injury concerns. Cele, one of their key midfielders, limped off during the loss to Arrows, adding to a growing list of sidelined players, including Reeve Frosler, Rushwin Dortley, and Tashreeq Morris.
Nabi refrained from giving details about Cele’s injury but acknowledged that injuries have affected the team’s performance. “We have been unlucky. It’s a lot to take, but we have to keep our energy positive,” he concluded.
As the season nears its end, Chiefs fans will be hoping for a turnaround, but whether Nabi can lead a late resurgence remains to be seen.
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