Nasreddine Nabi on Kaizer Chiefs’ Future: Is It Light Ahead or Another Setback?
Kaizer Chiefs’ 2024/25 campaign has been anything but predictable. Just when the team seems to be making progress, another setback hits – turning hope into yet another disappointment. Yet, Sunday’s astonishing Nedbank Cup semi-final triumph over Mamelodi Sundowns may have just reignited belief among the Amakhosi faithful that things might be heading in the right direction.
Inconsistency Under the New Coach
Under Tunisian coach Nasreddine Nabi, Chiefs’ season has swung wildly between brilliance and baffling performances. Inconsistent results have left fans unsure whether to celebrate or brace themselves for disappointment. It’s been a debut season of extremes for Nabi, whose side currently finds themselves outside the top eight in the league with eight wins, six draws, and 10 losses – a far cry from the dominance fans long for. They remain an astonishing 28 points behind runaway leaders Sundowns.
A Ray of Hope Against Sundowns
Despite this, the Nedbank Cup win was a glimmer of hope. Chiefs not only matched Sundowns but arguably outplayed them at times – a performance that surely gave Nabi renewed confidence that his project is slowly taking shape.
Silverware Within Reach
The pressure on the coach has been intense, but victory over a formidable rival like Sundowns eases that strain significantly. The win also earns Chiefs a spot in the Nedbank Cup final against bitter rivals Orlando Pirates, presenting a golden opportunity to end their silverware drought and potentially qualify for continental competition.
Also read: Kaizer Chiefs Edge Sundowns in Thriller, One Step from Ending Trophy Drought
The Bigger Picture: Trusting the Process
For Nabi, this moment is about more than just trophies. It’s about building something lasting. He continues to stress the importance of his “process” – a structured approach focusing not only on short-term results but on long-term development, especially of young talent from the DStv Diski Challenge squad. Promising youngsters like Mduduzi Tshabalala, Mfundo Vilakazi, and Wandile Duba were integrated into the senior setup under his watch.
Nasreddine Nabi’s Response to Job Security Questions
“I know my contract runs for two seasons, but it’s not my call,” Nabi explained after the semi-final. “Some think only about results, while I’m focused on the process – how we play, how we develop players. If we’re not aligned on that, then we’re speaking different languages.”
The Board’s Role and Future Prospects
Nabi believes that the Chiefs board has a clear view of what he’s trying to implement, from training sessions to tactical plans. “They’re watching everything – and if they think I shouldn’t continue, I’ll accept it. But if they believe in my vision, then I’ll carry on. I trust my process,” he said.
Also read: George Lebese Reveals Why He Left Kaizer Chiefs for Mamelodi Sundowns
Sunday’s win over Sundowns might be the breakthrough moment Nabi and his squad needed – a signal that the process could finally be bearing fruit. This victory remains to be seen, whether is the start of a true revival or simply another temporary high. But for now, Chiefs supporters can dare to hope that this time, the light at the end of the tunnel isn’t another train, but the beginning of a long-awaited return to glory
