Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi was furious after his team dropped points against Royal AM at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday. He accused his players of a lack of respect and professionalism, expressing confusion over their performance.

Chiefs dominated the first half, scoring two goals through Ashley du Preez and Wandile Duba within 13 minutes. However, they failed to capitalize on their early advantage and allowed Royal AM to claw their way back into the game.

Ayabulela Maxwele riffled home to reduce the numbers when Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen was punished when he was out of his line, with Chiefs failing to take care of the first and second ball. 

Levy Mashiane made it 2-2 for Shauwn Mkhize’s club, lifting the ball over Given Msimango who went in full force to clear the ball before beating Petersen in the referee’s optional time, leaving Nabi stunned.

“This was a lack of professionalism,” Nabi fumed. “We could have easily scored five or six goals in the first half, but we failed to convert our chances. Sometimes, it’s a lack of collective effort or individual ego. If you don’t respect the game, the game won’t respect you.”

Nabi was particularly disappointed with Yusuf Maart’s missed opportunity in the first half. He also criticized his players for prioritizing individual glory over team success.

“We missed countless chances,” he lamented. “After the 25-minute mark, everyone seemed to be playing for themselves. That’s unacceptable, and I addressed it with them both on the field and at halftime. I told them we needed to keep scoring.”

The draw leaves Chiefs in sixth place in the Betway Premiership table with 11 points from seven matches.