Kaizer Chiefs last won a trophy 17 months ago under Tunisian coach Nasreddine Nabi.
The 61-year-old spent just over a year at Naturena but ended Amakhosi’s 10-year trophy drought by guiding them to a 2-1 victory over Orlando Pirates in the Nedbank Cup final.
Since his departure, Chiefs have failed to reach another cup final and have struggled to show significant improvement despite investing in new players.
Although Nabi had his shortcomings, there were positive signs during his tenure.
Here are three things the Tunisian coach did well at Kaizer Chiefs.
Backing Mdu Shabalala and Wandile Duba to shine
Nabi made an encouraging start to life at Naturena, guiding Amakhosi to back-to-back victories in his first two matches. His style of play also earned praise, with Chiefs showing signs of a more attacking approach.
Mduduzi Shabalala and Wandile Duba were among the young players who showed promise under the Tunisian coach, contributing goals and offering hope that the club was moving in the right direction.
However, injuries and poor form eventually affected the team’s progress, making it difficult for Chiefs to maintain their early momentum.
Getting the best out of his midfield
There were matches during Nabi’s tenure when Chiefs looked strong in the middle of the park, with Thabo Cele and Edson Castillo providing important options in midfield.
The team’s attacking threat was also enhanced by late runs from Yusuf Maart and Castillo, who could cause problems for opposition defences by arriving in the box at the right time.
Amakhosi also looked dangerous from set pieces in certain matches, giving them another avenue to create scoring opportunities.
While Chiefs struggled to maintain consistency, these performances showed that Nabi could make his midfield combinations effective when his players executed his game plan.
Making decisive substitutions
Nabi showed that he was capable of making important tactical changes when his team needed a different approach.
This was evident in the Nedbank Cup final against Orlando Pirates. The coach introduced Mduduzi Shabalala and Ashley Du Preez, with the substitutions helping Chiefs turn the match around and secure a memorable 2-1 victory.
His decision to select Brandon Petersen ahead of Bruce Bvuma in goal also proved successful, as Amakhosi went on to lift the trophy.
The Nedbank Cup triumph was the defining moment of Nabi’s time at Naturena, ending a decade-long wait for silverware and giving the club’s supporters a reason to celebrate.
Despite his cup success, Nabi struggled to build a consistent Kaizer Chiefs side. He was unable to settle on a regular starting lineup and failed to get the best out of several players throughout his tenure.
What’s your take on Nabi?
Let us know by clicking on the comment banner below …
