Wandile Duba Highlights Chiefs’ Key Areas for Improvement Ahead of Nedbank Cup Semi-Final

Kaizer Chiefs forward Wandile Duba has identified key aspects his team must refine in training ahead of their crucial Nedbank Cup semi-final clash against Mamelodi Sundowns. With Amakhosi enduring a decade-long trophy drought, the Nedbank Cup represents their final opportunity this season to claim silverware, as they remain one of the four teams still in contention.

Chiefs’ Struggles in Front of Goal

One of the primary concerns for Chiefs this season has been their inefficiency in front of goal. Despite dominating possession and creating ample opportunities in recent matches, the Soweto giants have failed to convert their chances into victories.

Head coach Nasreddine Nabi has expressed his frustration over the recurring issue, emphasizing the need for improvement. Chiefs recorded 17 attempts at goal in their draw against Cape Town City but failed to secure a win. They managed six shots on target in their 2-0 loss to Richards Bay FC and registered four shots on target in their 2-1 defeat to Golden Arrows.

Duba’s Perspective on Chiefs’ Struggles

Duba, currently Amakhosi’s leading goal scorer with five goals this season, believes the team needs to sharpen their finishing in training. His latest goal came in a 1-1 draw against TS Galaxy, where he also provided a key pass that could have resulted in an assist had Gaston Sirino converted a one-on-one opportunity.

Speaking to SuperSport TV after the match against The Rockets, Duba stressed the need to address these shortcomings on the training pitch.

“I had to score, the coach started me because he was confident that I could score goals,” Duba said.

“Mistakes happen in football, but I’m sure next time I cross the ball, he (Sirino) will be able to score. It’s something we have to fix at training.”

Duba also underlined the importance of commitment on the field, revealing his determination to put his body on the line for the team.

“I could even have broken my leg for us to at least get the goal. We really needed the three points.”

Mental Lapses a Concern for Chiefs

Beyond missed opportunities, Duba pointed out a recurring issue with the team’s concentration during matches.

“The mentality has changed (improved). It’s just that we lose concentration during the game. But it’s those small mistakes.”

With Sundowns riding high after progressing in the CAF Champions League, Chiefs will need to fine-tune their finishing and maintain focus for the full 90 minutes if they are to stand a chance against the defending league champions in their semi-final showdown.