Nabi: It Might Be Early, But We Can Dream Big
Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi says, despite being relatively new to the team and in the process of building a long-lasting foundation, they don’t shy away from dreaming of trophy success.
Nabi’s Chiefs have made a strong start to the 2024/25 season under the Tunisian-born coach, winning two out of three league matches before the October international break.
As the international break has been concluded, Chiefs will resume their campaign with a visit to SuperSport United in the Carling Knockout Round of 16 at New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday (20:00).
Carling offers Chiefs a significant opportunity to end their trophy drought, as the club’s last cup competition victory dates back to 2014.
“The fact that we are building the team, it does not stop us from having a winning mentality,” said Nabi via translator.
“Every game we want to play with a winning mentality – whether it is a cup or Championship itself, we don’t want to hide behind the fact that we are building, and the results are secondary. No, that is not it.
“What is sure and promising to the fans is that all the games, regardless of what game is, we are going to make sure that we do our best and give a good result.”
Nabi’s side will face SuperSport United twice in quick succession, as they visit Gavin Hunt’s team at the same venue again next weekend.
Ahead of the Carling Knockout Round of 16, Nabi provided insights into his team’s preparations and expressed high regard for Hunt’s SuperSport side.
“I am expecting a very challenging game,” said Nabi.
“Frankly speaking, SuperSport is a very good team. I watched them in the MTN8 quarter-final against Orlando Pirates. They almost won that game except for the refereeing mistakes which was a penalty but unfortunately, that was not given to them.
“This is a reality. They are a very aggressive and tactically organized team, and my colleague (Gavin Hunt) gave them lots of skills and experience.
“He (Hunt) knows how to manage his players and I’m expecting a very good game, challenging one and we will see what happens.”
