Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi has defended young midfielder Samkelo Zwane after the team’s heavy 4-0 Carling Knockout Cup loss to Mamelodi Sundowns.
Chiefs were outclassed on Saturday as Sundowns took charge from the outset, leaving AmaKhosi’s trophy drought unresolved and sparking criticism directed at the team’s younger players, particularly Zwane.
Nabi, however, highlighted the importance of not singling out the youth, pointing out that experienced players needed to take greater responsibility in high-pressure games.
“It’s true some of the youngsters didn’t show what we wanted,” Nabi admitted. “But for players like Zwane, this is a learning curve,” he told reporters after the match.
He emphasized that the team’s senior players should have stepped up, especially in such a critical game.
Nabi explained that young players look to their seasoned teammates for guidance during tough moments, noting, “Those young players are looking up to the ones who have played these games more than 100 times.
“They need to understand the weight of this club’s history, and that no one, no matter how skilled, is above the team.”
He also reassured fans of Zwane’s potential, describing him as a talented player with a bright future.
“Zwane has all those years ahead of him. He’s going to improve, and he certainly wasn’t the worst player on the field.”
As Chiefs face a break before their Betway Premiership clash against Richards Bay FC on 27 November, Nabi’s comments spotlighted the need for collective accountability, with a focus on building a resilient squad for the challenges ahead.