Kaizer Chiefs Fall to Vitesse as Nabi’s Reign Begins with a Setback

Kaizer Chiefs began their pre-season campaign with a narrow 2-1 loss to Dutch outfit Vitesse Arnhem on Tuesday evening. This marked the first test under new head coach Nasreddine Nabi. The clash served as a platform to unveil several new signings. However, despite a promising start, Amakhosi fell short in the second half.

Kaize Chiefs Fresh Faces in the Starting Line-Up

Nabi handed debuts to right-back Thabiso Monyane and striker Flavio da Silva. Rising talents Aden McCarthy and Mfundo Vilakazi were also included in the starting XI. Chiefs looked to settle early, with midfielders Thabo Cele and Nkosingiphile Ngcobo enjoying significant time on the ball. However, clear chances were few and far between in the opening exchanges.

Frosler Opens the Scoring in Style

The breakthrough eventually came in the 36th minute through Reeve Frosler. He rifled in a superb long-range effort that left the Vitesse goalkeeper rooted. Despite a few half chances from the Dutch side late in the half, Brandon Petersen remained untroubled between the sticks. Chiefs took a 1-0 lead into the break.

Wholesale Changes Shift Momentum

Nabi made sweeping changes at the interval, introducing an entirely new eleven. This included Ethan Chislett and Nkanyiso Shinga. However, the shake-up backfired almost immediately. Just minutes into the second half, full-back Dillan Solomons inadvertently turned a cross into his own net. This leveled the score for Vitesse.

Tashreeq Morris came close to restoring Chiefs’ lead on the hour mark. He weaved through the defense but failed to convert from close range. That miss proved costly as Vitesse sealed the win with just under 20 minutes remaining. Andy Visser capitalized on a lapse at the back, slotting past Bruce Bvuma to complete the turnaround.

McCarthy’s Composure Offers Hope

Despite the defeat, there were several bright spots for Chiefs. Aden McCarthy impressed in central defence during the first half. He showed composure alongside Inacio Miguel. Having only featured once for the senior side last season, the youngster’s maturity on the ball suggests he could play a bigger role in the upcoming campaign.

Petersen Stakes His Claim

In goal, Petersen delivered a composed first-half display. While rumours continue to swirl about a new goalkeeper arriving at Naturena, Petersen appears determined. He wants to make the No.1 jersey his own after also starting in the Nedbank Cup final. Bvuma’s second-half appearance highlighted the ongoing competition in the goalkeeping department.

Frosler’s Versatility a Plus

Typically deployed at right-back, Frosler started the match on the left, a tactical move by Nabi that paid dividends. Not only did he look comfortable defensively, but his attacking drive also resulted in the opening goal. His versatility could prove invaluable over the season.

Defensive Experimentation Continues

Bradley Cross, who featured mostly as a left-back last season, was trialled at centre-back in the second half. With Nabi still assessing his best combinations, Cross might be considered for a more central role. This is especially given the pace issues he occasionally encountered out wide.

Miguel Leads the Side

With Yusuf Maart reportedly nearing a move to Austria, Nabi appears to be looking at Inacio Miguel as a potential captain. Miguel, who wore the armband last season in Maart’s absence, led the team again. He may be entrusted with leadership duties on a permanent basis. Zitha Kwinika is expected to serve as his deputy.

While the result was not ideal, the fixture offered Nabi a chance to evaluate his squad and test tactical options. With more matches lined up in Europe, Kaizer Chiefs will be eager to build rhythm. They aim to iron out defensive lapses, and sharpen their attacking edge before the domestic season begins.

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