Nabi: The Talents of Shabba and Doctor are Essential and Absent
Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasradine Nabi commended his players for their determination in achieving a win despite being down to 10 men. He also remarked on the gap in quality between his current team and previous Amakhosi line-ups.
Chiefs returned to winning form in the Betway Premiership by defeating Richards Bay 2-1 at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Wednesday, even after facing a numerical disadvantage in the second half.
Goals from Wandile Duba and Ashley Du Preez early in the second half secured all three points, propelling Chiefs to sixth place in the league standings.
In a post-match interview with SuperSport TV, the Chiefs manager noted that while they achieved victory, the performance did not entirely meet the team’s elevated standards.
“It’s not just about winning; the process must be effective. This is Kaizer Chiefs. Our goals are ambitious. Mentally, yes, it feels good,” Nabi stated.
Despite scoring twice, the Glamour Boys faced challenges in maintaining control of the match, enjoying only fleeting moments of possession.
The Tunisian coach expressed concerns regarding the team’s inconsistency, comparing the current players to esteemed legends like Doctor Khumalo and Siphiwe Tshabalala.
“There are positive moments in the game, but consistency is lacking. We need to enhance our performance in the final third. While gaining three points is vital for the club, it’s mentally taxing to play a half with 10 men. It feels rewarding, yet the process falls short. This is Kaizer Chiefs – think of the standards we had with Tshabalala and Doctor Khumalo; that’s the benchmark we strive for,” the former Young Africans coach reflected.
In the encounter against the Natal Rich Boys, Soweto giants recorded 18 attempts on goal, with only five hitting the target and two resulting in scores.
Converting scoring chances has been a persistent issue for Chiefs since the season began, causing frustration.
The Chiefs coach recognized this ongoing challenge, which he attributed to multiple factors, including a lack of confidence among strikers, not only within the Chiefs squad but across the league.
“Indeed, this is a significant concern for our team, extending beyond just this match. Teams are generating numerous opportunities without finishing, likely due to the strikers’ confidence or focus. Nonetheless, we are dedicated to enhancing our principles moving forward.”
After claiming a home victory and entering a busy period following a lengthy international break, Amakhosi will now prepare for another match against a KwaZulu-Natal team, hosting Royal AM this Saturday.