Nabi On Chiefs Fans: I won’t Be Told By You On Ranga

Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi says his emotions won’t be swayed by fans who whistled and called for striker Ranga Chivaviro to be substituted during their 4-0 victory over SuperSport United in the Carling Knockout Cup round of 16 at New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.

Chivaviro missed several chances in the match, including a glaring opportunity in the referee’s added time and another in the second half from close range with a header.

However, he eventually scored the third goal for Chiefs, before Ashley Du Preez completed the hammering by scoring the fourth as the Soweto Giants advanced to the quarterfinals.

“For Ranga Chivaviro, you know, sometimes strikers can lose focus due to fan pressure, but that’s football,” Nabi said after the game. “I don’t need to react emotionally like the fans. It’s my responsibility to support my players. I pushed him, promised him he would score, and thank God, he did.”

Nabi spoke in English about Chivaviro, as Cedric Kaze, his translator during the early stages of the post-match interview on SuperSport TV. Kaze was appointed as his assistant to replace Fernando da Cruz a few days ago.

Nabi used this opportunity to introduce Kaze to the public. “I present to you my friend here, my brother, Mr. Cedric Kaze,” Nabi said. “I’m sure he will contribute significantly to Chiefs with his skills and experience. I’m very happy for him to join us.”

Chiefs will face SuperSport United again at the same venue next weekend in the Betway Premiership.

By reaching the quarterfinals, Chiefs join Cape Town City, defending champions Stellenbosch, Magesi, Marumo Gallants, and Mamelodi Sundowns. The draw for the quarterfinals will take place after the final match on Sunday between TS Galaxy and Chippa United, and Richards Bay and Sekhukhune United.