Whether Kaizer Chiefs go on to win the Nedbank Cup or not, simply making it the final against Orlando Pirates was a massive highlight, said Amakhosi coach Nasreddine Nabi.
With fireworks expected in the 3.30pm kick-off at a sold-out Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday, the result won’t change that it’s been a massive achievement for a struggling Chiefs outfit to make it to the trophy match.
There’s no hiding from the fact that Chiefs are facing the prospect of another finish outside the top eight in the league.
With four games remaining for Chiefs in the Betway Premiership, they’re ninth in the standings on the same 30-point tally as Chippa United. If they’re unable to overtake Chippa, who have five games left, it will not be seen in a good light after a 10th-place finish last term.
Nabi Confident Chiefs Can Triumph Over Pirates in Nedbank Cup Final
Looking ahead to a Soweto Derby in the cup final though, Nabi said: “It’s true that it’s a big game coming up, but I will first say that everything has not been negative this season. I would say that our journey to the final of the Nedbank Cup allows the club to play in the CAF Confederation Cup next season.
“It’s not a performance itself, but it’s a positive thing for the club.”
Ultimately, Chiefs do have the ability to beat Pirates, insisted Nabi.
“About the pressure, there are players who have played for this club, done pretty well for this club, for example, Doctor Khumalo and (Simphiwe) Tshabalala,” he said.
“Their analysis or points of view of the situation, as well as my point of view about the situation of the club, it’s true that maybe the pressure I feel is to deceive the fans.
“But I’m pretty sure and confident I’m going into the Saturday game with confidence that we can do the good things, and we can lift this trophy.”
@Michael_Sherman
Sport
