Kaizer Chiefs’ head coach Nasreddine Nabi believes that Wandile Duba might have made a significant impact in their 2-1 defeat against Orlando Pirates on Saturday, as his side lacked firepower.
Duba missed the clash due to suspension, and his absence was sorely felt by Amakhosi, who struggled to convert their attacking chances in the high-stakes encounter.
The Chiefs academy graduate has been in impressive form this season, netting six goals in 23 appearances and becoming a key figure in the team’s attack.
“It’s true that Duba has been a player who is very important to our system. But those who played [against Pirates] showcased themselves,” said Nabi.
“They showed that they are capable of doing the job, but in the end, it’s true that when you are missing a player like Duba, offensively you are lacking.”
The defeat to the Buccaneers was a major setback for Chiefs, whose hopes of securing a top-eight finish are now under threat. The Glamour Boys are currently ninth on the DStv Premiership table with 30 points and just two games remaining.
Nabi is hopeful that Duba’s return will boost their chances of finishing in the top half of the table.
More urgently, the Tunisian tactician will look to the young striker to help Chiefs avenge their league loss when they meet Pirates again in the Nedbank Cup final on Saturday at Moses Mabhida Stadium.