Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi has laid down the law as the 2024/25 season nears its conclusion. With the team still chasing a strong league finish and a shot at silverware, Nabi isn’t tolerating any signs of complacency.
Speaking ahead of their upcoming Betway Premiership clash with Marumo Gallants on Saturday, April 26, the Tunisian tactician urged his squad to keep their focus razor-sharp—especially with a massive Soweto Derby double-header on the horizon.
The warning comes after a frustrating 0-0 stalemate against Chippa United, just days after Amakhosi pulled off a dramatic 2-1 win over Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup semi-final. The contrast in performances raised red flags for Nabi, who believes his players let their guard down after the cup high.
“We took key lessons from the Chippa game,” Nabi said, via iDiski Times. “We stressed all week how important it was to stay focused, but we didn’t show up mentally the way we should have.”
Complacency Creeping In?
Nabi didn’t sugarcoat his thoughts—he believes the team got comfortable after beating Sundowns, and that attitude nearly cost them vital points.
“We worked on the players’ mental strength. Smart players learn from their mistakes. Now we know—if we’re not mentally at 100%, we won’t win matches,” he added.
Chiefs Must Wake Up Before Derby Week
Currently clinging to 8th place in the league standings, Kaizer Chiefs are walking a tightrope. With the Soweto Derby approaching and every match now a must-win, Nabi wants his squad to snap out of cruise mode and realize what’s at stake.
The Marumo Gallants encounter is more than just another fixture—it’s a character test. And for Nabi, it’s clear: only the mentally ready will rise to the occasion.
