Under-Pressure Nabi Eyes Redemption as Kaizer Chiefs Target Nedbank Cup Glory

Kaizer Chiefs are gearing up for one of the most pivotal matches in their recent history as they prepare to face Orlando Pirates in the Nedbank Cup final—a showdown that could define Nasreddine Nabi’s tenure at Naturena.

The 2024/25 season has been far from ideal for the Soweto giants. Chiefs have struggled to establish consistency in the DStv Premiership and are currently fighting just to finish inside the top eight. With league disappointment looming, the Nedbank Cup presents the club’s final opportunity to salvage the season with silverware.

Head coach Nasreddine Nabi has come under intense scrutiny after failing to defeat bitter rivals Orlando Pirates in both league encounters. Now, with a trophy on the line, the Tunisian tactician must deliver or risk becoming the latest casualty of Chiefs’ managerial carousel.

Despite the immense pressure, there are signs of hope for Amakhosi. Midfielder George Matlou has returned from a lengthy injury layoff and is ready to contribute. Matlou, who was sidelined for nearly nine months, shared how emotionally challenging it was to be out of action.

“I’m happy to be back, it’s been a difficult time for me. I would say it was a bit hard for me to heal, but glad that I am fully recovered and fully fit,” Matlou said.

“It was a hard journey for me because it had been almost a year without doing what I love. Going to training and watching your teammates head to the field while you’re headed to the gym was emotionally draining,” he added. “But I’ve learned from the experience, and I’m grateful to the club for giving me another opportunity to stay.”

Matlou’s return could be a timely boost for Chiefs, with other key players such as Wandile Duba, Edson Castillo, and Miguel Inácio also back in contention for starting spots. Thabo Cele recently made his return to the squad, although Nabi noted that his reduced minutes were part of a cautious approach to managing his fitness.

For Chiefs fans, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The club has gone a decade without a major trophy, and the weight of that drought is increasingly felt across the fanbase. Victory in the Nedbank Cup final would not only end that barren run but also restore a sense of pride and belief in the Nabi project.

Orlando Pirates, meanwhile, come into the final with confidence after back-to-back wins over Chiefs this season under coach Jose Riveiro. But with both teams expected to be at full strength, the Nedbank Cup decider at Moses Mabhida Stadium promises to be a fierce contest loaded with emotion, pressure, and the hunger for glory.

For Nabi and his squad, this is more than just a cup final—it’s a last chance to silence critics and write a new chapter in Kaizer Chiefs’ story.