Kaizer Chiefs had been keeping something under wraps — but the truth has now surfaced.
Their incredible 2-1 comeback win over Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup semi-final at Loftus Versfeld wasn’t just a story of tactics and talent. It was a battle of heart and grit, as head coach Nasreddine Nabi revealed that several key players played through injuries to secure their place in the final against Orlando Pirates on May 10 at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Wounded Warriors Carry Chiefs Through
Missing central defenders Rushwin Dortley and Inacio Miguel, Chiefs had to reshuffle their backline. Edmilson Dove was called into action despite being far from full fitness, while Thabo Cele also took to the field carrying an injury. Even Zitha Kwinika, who was on the bench, wasn’t 100%.
“Before the game, we don’t talk about injuries, but maybe now we can… we lost Miguel before the game, Dove played with injury, and Zitha was also injured,” Nabi revealed via his assistant Khalil Ben Youssef.
He added, “Even Thabo Cele played injured. But when you see their effort, you understand their love for this team. They fought not just for the badge — but for the fans too.”
Medical Team the Unsung Heroes
Nabi credited the Chiefs’ medical staff for getting Dove and Kwinika ready just in time. Without them, the team would’ve had to turn to youth.
And that’s where 18-year-old Aden McCarthy comes in. The young defender was almost handed a surprise debut — he was “90%” set to start, according to Nabi.
“We’ve got young talent waiting for the right moment. Aiden McCarthy was nearly in the starting XI today, but thanks to the medical team, we could count on Dove and Zitha,” said the coach.
While McCarthy’s moment is coming, it was the seasoned soldiers who stood tall when it mattered most. Chiefs’ dramatic win wasn’t just about beating Sundowns — it was about pushing past pain, rising for the fans, and proving why they belong in the final.
