Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi has hailed his squad’s unwavering determination and resilience following their hard-fought 2-1 victory over Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup semi-final.
The dramatic win not only secured Chiefs a place in the final but also highlighted the immense challenges the team has faced due to a growing injury crisis.
Speaking after the match, Nabi revealed that several key players were already sidelined before kick-off, forcing the team to adapt and rely on sheer grit to overcome their formidable opponents.
Despite these setbacks, some players displayed extraordinary commitment by pushing through injuries to contribute to the victory.
Read: Nasreddine Nabi reveals his rally to Kaizer Chiefs players
Among those who played through pain were Edmilson Dove and Thabo Cele, both of whom put in battling performances despite carrying injuries. Zitha Kwinika, though unable to start, was named on the bench despite also struggling with fitness concerns.
Nabi emphasized that their willingness to fight for the team demonstrated not only their love for the club but also their deep desire to make the fans proud.
“Maybe before the game, we didn’t discuss injured players. But maybe now it’s time to say that before this game, we lost Miguel (Inacio). Then we were unlucky with Edmilson Dove and Zitha Kwinika, all of them also got injured,” Nabi told the media.
The injury setbacks forced Chiefs to promote young defender Aden McCarthy to the senior team setup, with Nabi confirming the player is training with the first team.
Despite the physical toll, Nabi praised his players’ commitment, especially those who chose to play through pain, such as Thabo Cele, Dove, and Kwinika.
“Cele played with an injury today (Sunday). When you see the performance of our players, you can understand how much they love this team, how much they deserve to be here, and what they’ve already accomplished, beating Sundowns,” said Nabi after the match.
“Thanks to the players, because some, when they get injured, might decide not to play in a game like this, a semi-final against Sundowns. But Dove and Zitha showed big mental strength and sacrifice.”
With the final against Orlando Pirates looming on May 18, 2025, Chiefs will need to summon that same fighting spirit as they aim to lift the prestigious trophy.
This triumph has given Nabi renewed hope that his squad is on the right track, despite the rollercoaster season they’ve endured. As the Soweto giants prepare for the final showdown, the coach remains focused on instilling confidence in his players and ensuring they are ready to seize the opportunity to bring silverware back to the club.
It’s a swift turnaround for Nabi & Co as his Kaizer Chiefs outfit will turn their focus back to the Betway Premiership as they prepare for an away clash against Chippa United this weekend.
Kick off at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is set for 17h30 on Saturday, 19 April 2025.