For the first time since 2019, Kaizer Chiefs are headed to a cup final.
For a team in transition, this could be the biggest motivating factor to ensure the club continues progressing.
The team is undergoing a process of change (Pic – Supplied)
Amakhosi booked their place in the final of the Nedbank Cup after they came from behind to win against Mamelodi Sundowns.
Second-half goals from Wandile Duba and Ashley Du Preez completed the turnaround after Teboho Mokoena’s free kick on the stroke of halftime gave Masandawana the lead.
“I have to say congratulations to our players. They proved that they are experienced and mentally very strong,” Nabi added.
But it wasn’t just experience that steadied the ship. It was a youthful bloom. Enter Wandile Duba.
At just 20 years and 290 days, Duba became the youngest Chiefs player to score in a semi-final in this competition’s PSL-era history, and the first to do it before turning 23.
“Duba’s goal gave us more confidence and that made the game more even,” said Nabi. “He was one of the best players in the game.”
His physicality, movement, and composure were there for all to see, and while Nabi is the first to acknowledge that the youngster is not yet the finished article mentally, the signs are dazzling.
Nasreddine Nabi has praised Wandile Duba for his cup heroics (Pic – Supplied)
“We are undergoing a process of change. Step by step, we are building this team… The plan for the season, we discussed it with the board, we have to keep giving the Diski players a chance,” said Nabi. “Age is just a number, if they are good enough, they will play.”
But he also cautioned on the weight of the gold and black shirt: “At Kaizer Chiefs, there is a lot of pressure, so you have to manage these young players well. If you do not and you throw them in at the wrong moments, it could kill their careers.”
“We have to say congratulations to the players, the board, and the fans,” said Nabi.
For a club that’s seen more turbulence than triumph in recent seasons, this cup run represents more than a shot at silverware and a chance for the club to continue their upward trajectory.
