Kaizer Chiefs mentor Nasreddine Nabi has revealed that his players felt exhausted during the Betway Premiership 1-0 win over Golden Arrows, but his substitutes saved the day.
The match was decided by Flavio da Silva, one of Kaizer Chiefs‘ new signings, who struck the game’s only goal in the 70th minute.
The Guinea-Bissau-Portuguese star was introduced just before the hour mark, along with Mfundo Vilakazi and Gaston Sirino, who all combined for the goal.
NASREDDINE NABI ON KAIZER CHIEFS’ WIN OVER GOLDEN ARROWS
Amakhosi substitutes make the impact
Nabi said Kaizer Chiefs dominated the first half but couldn’t find the net. “We created too many chances, but we didn’t score. At half-time, I told them to lift their mood, stay patient, and the goal would come,” he told SuperSport TV.
- Flavio da Silva scored his first Kaizer Chiefs goal
- Mfundo Vilakazi and Gaston Sirino also changed the game
Fatigue after Mamelodi Sundowns clash
However, the Tunisian coach admitted things got tricky after the break. “The first 30 minutes of the second half, some players were very tired after the Sundowns game. It’s normal. The substitutes gave more for the team,” Nabi explained.
- Kaizer Chiefs played Sundowns just days earlier
- Nabi said tired legs were “normal” in that context
Nabi praises staff and fans
The Kaizer Chiefs mentor stressed it was always going to be a difficult night. “Before the game, I said it’s a very difficult game; we were in for a very difficult game. I’m happy for all the staff, players and fans.”
The result leaves Amakhosi still unbeaten in five games, but Nabi’s words hinted that rotation could be key if Kaizer Chiefs are to keep their momentum in the Betway Premiership.
DO YOU THINK NASREDDINE NABI WILL LEAD THE TEAM TO ANOTHER TROPHY THIS SEASON AFTER WINNING THE NEDBANK CUP LAST SEASON?
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