Coach Nasreddine Nabi has had enough of the growing chorus of criticism directed at him following Kaizer Chiefs’ latest failure — missing out on next season’s MTN8 competition.
Nabi’s fierce defiance emerged in the post-match media interview after Chiefs’ frustrating goalless draw against the lesser-fancied Polokwane City at the FNB Stadium on Saturday. It was Chiefs’ final Betway Premiership match of the season, and their last opportunity to secure a season-ending top-eight finish.
While answering questions, Nabi outlined the challenges his “project” had faced, but also reminded the media of the Nedbank Cup triumph he secured last week — the club’s first piece of silverware in a decade.
The under-fire coach acknowledged that failing to reach the Top 8 had invited scrutiny from his critics.
“I regret we are not in the MTN8. It would be better to be in the MTN8, but it is a process,” said Nabi.
“I am sorry, but I will not be influenced by today’s result. It undermines what the team has achieved this season.
“Fifa recognises two champions – the one who wins the cup and the one who wins the league. Chiefs won an official title.”
Nabi’s comments reflect a shift in focus — opting to highlight the positives amid the criticism. He maintains that every setback provides an opportunity for growth, and he is determined to use this experience as a stepping stone for the future.
He stressed that this was a transitional season for the club. His selections were focused not only on results but also on building a cohesive and effective playing style aligned with his long-term vision.
“I give more importance to the game model. This is a transition season, and I gave more opportunities to develop the game model,” said Nabi.
“(Chiefs) are second in terms of chances created in the PSL. The problem is efficiency.
“We don’t have a striker who scores. If we had that striker, maybe I would have finished third this season. I’m not dramatizing — it’s just not good.
“We hit the woodwork three times in this match. We tried against a team playing with a low block, and unfortunately, we couldn’t score.
“It doesn’t take away from the fact that we did everything we could. We’ll hold on to the joy of the cup we won after ten years.
“In the league, we need to be better next season.”
He told the media he deserves to continue as head coach and proudly pointed to victories over leading Premiership clubs such as Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and Stellenbosch this season.
Nabi also expressed his frustration with what he sees as a consistently negative tone in post-match questioning, even after their cup success.
“I’m not defending myself. I know my position with the club’s management and the direction I am taking,” said Nabi.
“We now know what we need as a team. We’ve progressed because we understand exactly what is required.”
As Kaizer Chiefs’ management reassess their strategy, questions remain over the future direction of the club. A change in personnel may be required to restore the team’s status among South African football’s elite.
