
Kaizer Chiefs’ head coach Nasreddine Nabi voiced his frustration after his team’s points slip against Royal AM at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday. He stated that his players exhibited a lack of professionalism and respect, expressing his astonishment at their performance.
The Chiefs dominated the first half, scoring two goals from Ashley du Preez and Wandile Duba within a quick 13-minute interval. Nonetheless, they failed to maintain this advantage, allowing Royal AM to mount a comeback.
Ayabulela Maxwele closed the gap after Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen was caught out of position, highlighting the team’s inability to defend effectively on second balls.
Levy Mashiane brought the score to 2-2 for Shauwn Mkhize’s side by skillfully lifting the ball over Given Msimango, who rushed in to clear, and subsequently beating Petersen in stoppage time, leaving Nabi astounded.
“This performance was utterly unprofessional,” Nabi declared. “We had chances to score five or six goals in the first half but failed to take them. It’s often about a lack of collective effort or allowing individual egos to dominate. If you don’t show respect for the game, it won’t show you respect in return.”
Nabi specifically mentioned his discontent with Yusuf Maart’s missed opportunity in the first half, criticizing his players for favoring individual accolades over team achievements.
“We wasted many chances,” he reflected. “After the first 25 minutes, it seemed like everyone was more focused on their own game. That’s not acceptable, and I highlighted this both on the field and at halftime. I stressed the need to keep pushing for goals.”
This draw leaves Chiefs in sixth place on the Betway Premiership standings, having earned 11 points from seven matches.