Kaizer Chiefs coach Nabi reflects on beating Mamelodi Sundowns, how the international break benefited fringe players & gearing up for PSL clash

Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi has returned after a medical procedure that caused him to miss the team’s trip to Gqeberha, where they defeated Mamelodi Sundowns to win the Home of Legends Trophy.

Chiefs went into the Fifa break off the back of a heavy loss to Sundowns.

However, the Tunisian tactician remains optimistic, noting the break allowed the team to regroup and improve ahead of their upcoming league fixture.

Nabi highlighted the importance of using the break effectively by participating in the Home of Legends Cup and a friendly match against a first-division team.

This gave much-needed game time to fringe players like Sibongiseni “Ox” Mthethwa, Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, and Pule Mmodi.

Now, Chiefs are focused on turning their momentum into valuable league points as they face Richards Bay in Polokwane on Wednesday.

“I wasn't happy with the stop-start of the league, but we need to accept it and respect the league," Nabi said during Chiefs' media open day at Naturena on Monday morning, as reported by Sowetan.

"We profited from the recent FIFA break... We participated in a cup and also played a friendly game against a first-division team. We gave more minutes to several players who have played a lot this season.

“We had a good reaction from some players like Ox [Mthethwa], Ngcobo, and Mmodi in the Home of Legends Cup, so we benefited from this FIFA break.

“Richards Bay's situation is not good. I am sure they will give 200% in this game, not because they will be playing against Chiefs but because they are desperate for a positive result.

"We respect them, but we also want nothing less than three points. I want to win, especially after the game against Sundowns. We go to Polokwane with big morale," Nabi stated.

Chiefs need to capitalise on the momentum they gained during the international break and turn it into consistent league performances.

Securing points in their next fixtures is vital as they look to climb the table and close the gap on the top three teams.

Chiefs currently have two games in hand compared to Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns.

With their squad depth improving and key players finding form, there’s an opportunity to make up ground.

A strong showing against Richards Bay will be crucial to maintaining their ambitions for the season.

Chiefs travel to Polokwane for a crucial league encounter against Richards Bay.

Securing three points is essential to narrow the gap with the top three teams.

Nabi will look to carry the confidence from their Sundowns victory into this match.

The coach is banking on his squad’s recent improvements and morale to deliver a winning performance.