Nabi Remains Optimistic About Chiefs’ Nedbank Cup Chances Despite Soweto Derby Loss
Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi acknowledged the pressure and responsibility ahead of the Nedbank Cup final against Orlando Pirates.
Despite suffering a 2-1 loss in the Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium on Saturday, Nabi remains confident that his team will bounce back and make a strong showing in the cup final.
“We still have a final to save our season, and everybody knows that everyone has a chance to put a smile on the faces,” Nabi said.
Nabi recognized that Chiefs faced a tough opponent in Pirates, who outplayed them at times. However, he believes that his players will respond positively to the challenge of the Nedbank Cup final.
“We know that players are going to respond very positively, and they are going to be up to the challenge,” he added.
Regarding the team selection on their 2-1 loss against Pirates, Nabi explained that Thabo Cele and Inacio Miguel didn’t start the game due to fitness concerns.
“For Thabo Cele, he is coming from injury and hasn’t fully trained,” Nabi said. “He’s been injured, and that’s why he didn’t start because he wasn’t fully fit to start the game or play 90 minutes.”
Cele did come in as a substitute in the second half, and Nabi’s cautious approach was likely aimed at avoiding further injury. Similarly, Miguel’s absence from the starting lineup was attributed to fitness issues.
“About Inacio Miguel, he is also coming from an injury,” Nabi explained. “I think he also wasn’t fully fit to give a 100% performance, and that’s why he didn’t start.”
Despite the loss, Nabi’s focus is already on the Nedbank Cup final, where Chiefs will face Pirates again on May 10.
With two league games remaining, Chiefs are ninth in the Betway Premiership standings with 30 points. They will take on Polokwane City and Sekhukhune United in their final two matches, but the Nedbank Cup final is now the main priority.
Nabi’s comments suggest that Chiefs will look to regroup and build momentum ahead of the cup final. With the right mindset and preparation, Nabi believes that his team can overcome Pirates and bring home the trophy.
The stage is set for a thrilling rematch, and Chiefs will be eager to make amends for the Soweto Derby loss.
