Nasreddine Nabi Explains Bold Goalkeeper Switch After Kaizer Chiefs’ Nedbank Cup Triumph

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi has shed light on his surprising decision to start Brandon Petersen over Bruce Bvuma in the heated Nedbank Cup final clash against Orlando Pirates — a move that ultimately paid off in a thrilling 2-1 victory at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

In a high-stakes Soweto Derby played in front of a sold-out crowd, Amakhosi delivered a spirited performance to secure their first piece of silverware under Nabi’s leadership. The match began with early drama as Gaston Sirino converted from the penalty spot for Pirates, only for Chiefs’ Evidence Makgopa to level the scores just seven minutes later. It was Yusuf Maart’s stunning volley in the 72nd minute that sealed the win for the Glamour Boys and sent their fans into jubilation.

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While the final result was reason enough to celebrate, much of the post-match discussion centered on Nabi’s decision to drop Bruce Bvuma — who had started regularly in recent weeks — in favor of Brandon Petersen, who hadn’t featured since December 2024.

Speaking during the post-match press conference, Nabi explained that the choice was made with the player’s well-being in mind, highlighting the intense scrutiny Bvuma had been under in recent weeks.

“With Brandon Petersen, we noticed that there was extreme pressure on Bruce in these last few weeks. We believe it was inhumane pressure on him,” said Nabi.

“It wasn’t just about protecting Bruce — we have three quality goalkeepers, and Brandon has been training tremendously well with our goalkeeper coach Ilyez Mzoughi. The decision was based on form, fitness, and confidence.”

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Nabi admitted it was a gamble, knowing the backlash he could have faced had the decision backfired.

“It could have gone either way. If he conceded, people would’ve asked: ‘Why did you change in the final?’ But our goalkeeper coach was confident in the work Petersen had done. And in those 90 minutes, he proved it was an excellent bet,” Nabi added.

Petersen’s assured performance included several key saves and calm distribution, helping Chiefs maintain composure under Pirates’ pressure in the final moments.

With the trophy secured, Kaizer Chiefs now return their focus to the Betway Premiership, where they remain in a tight race to secure a top-eight finish. Their next assignment is a tricky away fixture against Sekhukhune United on Saturday — a match that could define their continental qualification hopes.

Will Nabi’s brave calls continue to shape a new winning identity for Amakhosi? All signs suggest the winds of change are blowing strong at Naturena.