Tsepo Masilela Criticizes Kaizer Chiefs’ Tactical Issues, Points to Nabi’s Weaknesses

by Nyiko Maluleke

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Amid ongoing debates over whether the struggles at Kaizer Chiefs lie with the players or head coach Nasreddine Nabi, former Chiefs defender Tsepo Masilela has weighed in with his perspective, highlighting a key weakness that he believes has exposed Nabi’s management. The 35-year-old Masilela, who enjoyed a successful stint with the club during his playing days, offered his analysis of the current situation at Naturena, stressing that both the coach and the players have their roles to play in the club’s underperformance.

Kaizer Chiefs, one of South Africa’s most iconic and successful football clubs, have faced significant struggles in recent seasons. With inconsistent results and an inability to challenge for major titles, Chiefs fans have been vocal in their frustrations, especially after a disappointing start to the 2025 season. The club’s underwhelming performances have sparked discussions about whether the problem lies with the players’ quality or the tactical decisions of the coach.

Masilela, who made over 100 appearances for Chiefs during his time with the club, pointed out that while players have a responsibility to execute their roles, the head coach’s tactics and decision-making are pivotal in ensuring the team plays at its highest level. According to Masilela, Nabi’s tactical approach and inability to find the right balance in the squad have been exposed as major weaknesses.

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In an interview with local media, Masilela suggested that one of the significant issues with Chiefs’ current form lies in the tactical setup employed by Nabi. He argued that the coach has struggled to implement a consistent game plan, often changing formations and making decisions that leave the team vulnerable during matches.

“What I see at Chiefs right now is a team that lacks direction and balance,” Masilela explained. “The coach has tried several formations, but there doesn’t seem to be a clear, defined style of play. You can’t win consistently if the team doesn’t know exactly what is expected of them in every game. The players are not robots, they need a system that they can rely on.”

Masilela noted that while Chiefs have talented individuals, the lack of a cohesive tactical framework has hindered their ability to perform as a unit. The former left-back emphasized that a head coach needs to provide clear instructions and strategies to get the best out of his squad, and in Nabi’s case, that clarity has been lacking.

Masilela’s comments come at a time when there has been growing speculation about the relationship between the players and the coach. Many have questioned whether the players are fully buying into Nabi’s methods or whether the coach is failing to get the best out of his team.

While some have pointed fingers at the players for lacking motivation and failing to execute basic tactics, Masilela believes that the responsibility also lies with the coach to ensure the team functions as a cohesive unit. He explained that the dynamic between players and coaches is essential for success, and that it’s crucial for both parties to be on the same page.

“There’s always going to be criticism of players when results don’t go well,” Masilela said. “But as a coach, you need to get your team to work together and play in a way that makes sense. If your players aren’t performing, it’s your job to find a solution. A good coach finds a way to make the team better, even if the players aren’t at their best.”

The former defender also expressed concern for the club’s future under Nabi’s leadership. He stated that the longer the tactical issues persist, the more it would damage the team’s morale and ability to mount a serious challenge for titles in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). Chiefs, despite their financial power and large fanbase, have struggled to attract top-quality players in recent seasons, leaving them reliant on developing their existing squad.

“If you keep changing tactics and not seeing the results, it starts to affect the confidence of the players,” Masilela said. “You need to have a solid foundation, a clear plan, and the players must believe in that plan. Right now, I think there’s a lot of uncertainty, and that’s dangerous.”

Chiefs’ struggle to challenge for trophies has intensified the spotlight on Nabi, who took over from former coach Arthur Zwane with the expectation of turning the club’s fortunes around. With the team failing to mount a significant challenge in both domestic and continental competitions, questions about Nabi’s suitability for the role continue to mount.

However, Nabi’s supporters argue that he needs time to build his vision and implement his philosophy. The team has shown glimpses of promise, but consistency remains an issue. With the club’s management, led by the Chiefs’ executive team, being heavily invested in success, they will need to carefully assess whether the right steps are being taken to improve the team’s overall performance.

Masilela suggested that if Chiefs are to rediscover their competitive edge, both the coach and the players need to be more unified in their approach. The players must remain focused and disciplined, while the coach must find a clear tactical identity that brings the best out of the squad.

“Kaizer Chiefs is one of the biggest clubs in Africa, and there’s no excuse for not competing at the highest level,” Masilela added. “The right leadership and clarity of purpose are what’s needed now. If Nabi can provide that, the team will respond, but it’s crucial for him to settle on a system and make sure the players understand it.”

The road ahead for Chiefs will not be easy, but with the right tactical approach, team unity, and clear leadership, the club could begin to return to its former glory. The next few weeks will be crucial for Nabi as he seeks to regain the trust of the fans and the players, and most importantly, deliver the results that are expected from such a prestigious club.

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