Kaizer Chiefs Face Selection Nightmare as Three Stars Risk Missing Sundowns Clash
Kaizer Chiefs face a crucial decision ahead of their Nedbank Cup semi-final clash against Mamelodi Sundowns, as three key players—Inacio Miguel, Mduduzi Shabalala, and Pule Mmodi—risk suspension if they receive another yellow card in their upcoming league fixture against TS Galaxy.
The Glamour Boys are currently eighth in the Premier Soccer League standings with 29 points from 23 matches, putting their qualification for the 2025-26 MTN8 tournament in jeopardy. Their inconsistent league form has made their upcoming fixtures even more critical.
On Saturday, Chiefs take on fourth-placed TS Galaxy at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, a must-win match if they are to improve their league standing. However, with the Nedbank Cup semi-final looming just a week later against the defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns, Coach Nasreddine Nabi faces a tough selection dilemma.
Miguel, Shabalala, and Mmodi have all accumulated three yellow cards each. If any of them receive another booking against TS Galaxy, they will be suspended for the semi-final against Sundowns, a crucial match in Chiefs’ bid for silverware this season.
This presents a difficult decision for Nabi: should he field his strongest team against Galaxy and risk losing key players for the cup semi-final, or should he bench them to ensure they are available against Masandawana?
Chiefs’ failure to progress in the Carling Knockout, where they were eliminated by Sundowns in the quarter-finals, has added pressure to their Nedbank Cup campaign. The semi-final presents an opportunity for redemption, but they will need their best squad available to stand a chance against the reigning league champions.
Additionally, speculation is growing over Nabi’s future at Chiefs. With reports suggesting that the club’s management is considering making a tough decision on his tenure, the outcomes of these two crucial matches could determine whether the Tunisian coach remains at the helm.
Chiefs’ performances against TS Galaxy and Mamelodi Sundowns will be pivotal in shaping their season and possibly their coaching structure. Nabi’s tactical choices in managing his squad over the next week will be closely scrutinized as the club fights to stay competitive in domestic football.
