Kaizer Chiefs Suffer Another Injury Blow as Nabi Faces Defensive Crisis
Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi may be facing yet another selection headache after vice-captain Inacio Miguel was forced off due to injury during their 1-1 draw against TS Galaxy at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.
The disappointing result saw Amakhosi fail to make significant progress in the league standings, but the bigger concern for the long-suffering Khosi Nation is Miguel’s fitness ahead of a crucial run of fixtures.
Miguel’s Injury Woes
The 29-year-old Angolan defender initially left the field on a stretcher in the second half but briefly returned to action before collapsing in pain once again. Addressing the situation after the match, Nabi explained why Miguel was allowed to re-enter the pitch despite showing clear signs of discomfort.
“In those cases, we ask the player how he feels and consult the medical staff,” Nabi told journalists.
“If the player is able to return and the doctor gives me the green card, then both of them said that he could try. But unfortunately, he couldn’t, and after that, he got subbed. We will wait to see how he is doing and get the thoughts of our medical staff to see if he will be there for the next game.”
Chiefs’ Defensive Dilemma Ahead of Sundowns Clash
Chiefs are already dealing with a defensive setback, with centre-back Rushwin Dortley sidelined after undergoing knee surgery. Should Miguel be ruled out, Nabi will have to rely on Given Msimango, Zitha Kwinika, and Edmilson Dove as his primary options in central defense.
The timing of this injury concern could not be worse, as Chiefs are set to face the high-flying Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup on Sunday. With Sundowns boasting dangerous attackers like Peter Shalulile and Iqraam Rayners, Nabi will need to carefully select his defensive pairing to withstand the challenge.
As Amakhosi wait for further updates from the medical team, fans will be hoping for positive news regarding Miguel’s availability for what could be a defining match in their season.
