Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi has turned heartbreak into hope following his team’s narrow 1-0 loss to Orlando Pirates in Saturday’s dramatic Soweto Derby. Despite the loss coming on the back of a controversial added-time penalty—converted by Bafana Bafana midfielder Patrick Maswanganyi—Nabi insists that the defeat has positive implications for the club’s future.
“I love the team’s progress; the mentality has changed compared with last season,” Nabi declared during his post-match press conference. “Kaizer Chiefs will come back stronger because there were a lot of positives that we picked up today.” The Tunisian tactician, who made his debut in the fierce rivalry this weekend, emphasized that while the result stings, it is not the only measure of success. His focus remains on the evolution of his squad’s approach, attitude, and overall performance.
According to Nabi, the match itself showcased significant improvements. The Glamour Boys managed to hold off the Buccaneers for 90 minutes of intense play. The game looked destined for a goalless draw until a late drama unfolded. In added time, with tensions high and emotions running deep, the referee awarded a penalty after a controversial decision in the dying minutes—a decision that ultimately cost Chiefs the three points.
Nabi also took the opportunity to commend the performance of his two new signings, who made their debut despite facing challenges. “I believe that for the time they were on the field, they showed good quality. You must understand, they only trained for four days after long trips from Europe. They weren’t training regularly before they came, but in the few minutes they played, you could see the quality. We’re happy with the players who came on—so thank you to the management for those signings,” he said, highlighting the club’s strategic reinforcements as a sign of future success.
The former AS FAR Rabat and Young Africans coach believes that the current campaign marks a turning point for the club. “Their mentality has totally changed,” Nabi added. “It’s a long journey, but we’re on the right path. We picked up many positives today that will fuel our comeback.”
Looking ahead, the coach is determined to steer his side back to winning ways. Kaizer Chiefs will next face AmaZulu FC in the Betway Premiership, a crucial match that could help them retain fifth place on the log as they close the gap with rivals like Stellenbosch FC and Cape Town City . Meanwhile, Pirates remain six points behind league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, despite having played one more game.
For Nabi, the loss is a stepping stone rather than a setback. His message to the fans is clear: progress and resilience will be the foundation on which Kaizer Chiefs build their future success.