Nabi Shields Shabalala From Criticism

Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi has come to the defense of midfielder Mduduzi Shabalala, urging fans and critics not to attack the young player following their 2-1 loss to Orlando Pirates in the Soweto Derby on Saturday. 

Shabalala, who played the full 90 minutes in the match, which saw Chiefs fall to a defeat, saw his pass intercepted, and Pirates went on to score a goal through Evidence Makgopa. 

The Amakhosi fans were quick to criticize Shabalala’s performance on social media, but Nabi believes that this type of criticism can be detrimental to the young player’s development.

“I want to give my support to my young, talented player, Shabalala,” Nabi said. “I don’t want people to attack him because he is young.” 

Nabi emphasized that Shabalala’s participation in high-pressure games like the Soweto Derby is an opportunity for him to showcase his skills and learn from his mistakes. 

“This situation or these types of games give Shabalala a chance to show himself, and it’s fine for him to make mistakes, and he’s going to learn from those mistakes,” Nabi added.

Despite the criticism, Nabi remains committed to giving Shabalala opportunities to grow and develop. 

“If I continue playing him, I think he will be an important player for the club in the future,” Nabi said, highlighting his confidence in the young midfielder’s potential. 

Shabalala has already shown promise this season, scoring at least four goals in all competitions for Amakhosi.

With the Nedbank Cup final against Pirates on Saturday, Shabalala will be looking to impress and make amends for his performance in the Soweto Derby.