Injuries and fatigue taking their toll on Nasreddine Nabi's Kaizer Chiefs after two matches in four days - 'Even after the game Sibongiseni Mthethwa had bit of discomfort'

Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi has clarified the reasons for the numerous changes made in a PSL match against AmaZulu FC compared to the team that faced Orlando Pirates in the Soweto Derby on Saturday.

In the Usuthu match, the 59-year-old coach made six changes, with new signings Glody Lilepo, Tashreeq Morris, and Thabo Cele receiving their starting berth. 

Players like Sibongiseni Mthethwa and Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, amongst others who performed well against Pirates in the Derby, were left out on Tuesday.

During the post-match interview after the 2-2 draw against AmaZulu at the FNB Stadium, Nabi shared the reason for his team rotation.

"No, the changes were due essentially to fatigue, two days after a very big game, demanding physically and mentally, so those changes were as well made because we needed to have a competitive team, as well as to give us a good balance to give us three points," Nabi told the media.

"The only thing we were thinking of was to get a good performance and get three points today. There were some players that the GPS showed from the last game that they were a little bit in the red zones.

"Someone like Ox [Sibongiseni Mthethwa] even today at the end of the game had a little bit of discomfort in his muscles due to the fatigue," he added. 

"And as well we have players who have been injured for quite some time. Someone like [Njabulo] Blom was suspended today and George Matlou, who was injured from the last game and was not available today and will not be available for the next game."

Chiefs possess a large roster, however, injuries have been impacting Amakhosi since the season started, presenting challenges for the Tunisian coach.

Currently, regular players Ashley Du Preez and Wandile Duba are sidelined due to severe injuries, while Edmilson Dove is also recovering from a long-term injury sustained during pre-season camp in Turkey. 

The injury issues affecting the Glamour Boys may have played a role in the team collecting only 22 points from 16 matches, having lost six, drawn four, and won six times in the league so far.

Chiefs will need to quickly move on from the disappointing draw against AmaZulu and prepare for their upcoming league match against Stellenbosch.

The Glamour Boys will head to the Western Cape to take on Stellies at the Athlone Stadium on Friday, a match that could be described as essential for Nabi.