Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi has shared his thoughts on the performances of debutants Thabo Cele and Glody Lilepo following their first appearances in the Soweto Derby. Despite the 1-0 loss to Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium, Nabi was impressed with what the two showed on the field, especially given their brief time in South Africa.
Cele, who replaced George Matlou in the 51st minute, and Lilepo, who came on for Mdu Shabalala shortly after the hour mark, were both fresh faces in a high-pressure game. Nabi pointed out that both players had only trained for four days following long trips from Europe, and had not been training regularly before their arrival. Yet, even in the limited time they played, Nabi saw enough to be positive about their potential.
“For the time they were on the field, they showed some good quality. You have to understand they’ve been here for such a short time, and considering the circumstances, they did well,” Nabi said. “We’re happy with their contribution, and we’re grateful to the management for bringing them in.”
Despite the defeat marking Chiefs’ sixth loss of the season, which puts them seven points behind third-place Polokwane City and 15 points behind league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, Nabi remains optimistic about the team’s progress.
“The loss is disappointing, especially in a derby, but it’s just three points,” he reflected. “We have another chance, and I’m pleased with how the team has progressed. In five to six months, we’ve seen a real shift in the team’s mentality compared to last season. We promised our fans that Kaizer Chiefs would bounce back, and while we lost today, there were still plenty of positives to take away.”
Nabi remains confident in the long-term development of the team, with a clear focus on building a positive mindset and continuing to improve as the season progresses.
