Kaizer Chiefs head coach, Nasreddine Nabi, has revealed the intense conversations he had with the match officials following his team’s 2-1 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns. What went down in those heated moments, and what did Nabi have to say about the controversial officiating?The tension in the match was palpable, especially after Sundowns’ second goal, which left the Chiefs’ technical team furious. Was it really offside? Nabi seems to think so. Do you agree with his assessment?
Was It Offside? Chiefs Think So
The chaos started in the first half when Iqraam Rayners netted Sundowns’ second goal. But was Lucas Ribeiro in an offside position when the ball was played to him? The Chiefs’ technical team believed so, and their protests were so intense that Chiefs’ assistant coach was even handed a yellow card. Imagine being in Nabi’s shoes—would you have reacted differently?
Nabi’s Halftime Talk with the Referee—What Was Said?
During the halftime break, Nabi took his concerns directly to the referee. “We talk to the referee. ‘The goal is big offside, two meters,'” Nabi stated. But here’s where it gets interesting—Nabi didn’t want any favors. “You don’t need to give me a gift,” he told the referee. “I don’t need a gift. He needs to respect the rules of the game.”In that high-pressure moment, how would you have handled such a conversation with the officials? Would you have been as calm, or would the emotions of the game have taken over?
No Excuses—Nabi Stands Firm
Even though Nabi expressed his frustration over the refereeing decisions, he made it clear that there were no excuses for the loss. “If I lose, I lose,” he said. “I continue cooking.” This statement gives a glimpse into his mindset—focused, resilient, and ready to move forward despite the setbacks. Do you think this attitude will help Chiefs bounce back in their next match?
Last-Minute Drama: The Equalizer That Wasn’t
As if the first-half drama wasn’t enough, the game ended with yet another controversy. Chiefs thought they had scored a last-minute equalizer, only for the goal to be ruled out due to a foul on Sundowns defender Mosa Lebusa. Was this the right call, or could it have been another officiating blunder?Nabi reflected on the intensity of the game, recognizing the high emotions from both teams. “It’s part of the game,” he suggested. But the question remains—did the referee’s decisions cost Chiefs the match?
What do you think? Should officiating in the PSL be more scrutinized, or is this just part of the beautiful game? Let us know your thoughts!
