Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi has shed light on the unusual circumstances surrounding several of his players requesting substitutions during the clubβs crucial 2-1 victory over Stellenbosch FC in the DStv Premiership on Saturday.
In a tense encounter that saw Chiefs fight back to secure all three points, Nabi was forced to make multiple substitutions due to what appeared to be fatigue and injury concerns among his players. The requests came at a critical time in the match, raising questions about the physical toll the players were under during the game.
Speaking after the match, Nabi revealed that several players were feeling the effects of a grueling schedule and the intensity of the encounter, which led to their requests to be withdrawn from the pitch. He stressed that the teamβs health and well-being were paramount and that the players’ honesty in expressing their discomfort showed their commitment to the teamβs success.

βWe had a few players who, despite their best efforts, were struggling with fatigue and some minor niggles, and they came to me requesting to be substituted,β Nabi explained. βIt was important for me to listen to them because we cannot afford to risk injuries, especially with the busy schedule we have. We have a lot of games ahead, and maintaining player fitness is crucial.β
Despite the disrupted flow caused by the substitutions, Nabi was quick to praise the overall resilience and fighting spirit demonstrated by his squad. The coach noted that the players pushed through their physical limits to secure the vital three points, especially after Stellenbosch took an early lead.
The match saw Chiefs come from behind, with goals from captain Itumeleng Khune and attacking midfielder Yusuf Maart, who netted a dramatic late winner. Nabi highlighted the importance of the teamβs mental strength, particularly in moments when their energy reserves were running low.
βIβm really proud of the teamβs character today,β Nabi said. βWe were a bit short on energy, and the substitutions were necessary, but the players kept fighting, they kept believing. They never gave up, and in the end, we got the result we needed. Itβs that kind of determination that will drive us forward.β
The victory over Stellenbosch was a crucial one for Kaizer Chiefs, as they aim to push up the league standings after a difficult start to the season. With the victory, Chiefs moved into the top half of the table and Nabiβs side will look to build on this momentum in the coming weeks.
Nabi also touched on the importance of squad rotation, especially as Chiefs continue to compete on multiple fronts this season. He admitted that maintaining freshness and minimizing injuries would be key to achieving consistent performances across competitions.
As the team looks to face even tougher challenges ahead, Nabiβs leadership and emphasis on player welfare will be vital in ensuring the club remains competitive throughout the season.