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Nasreddine Nabi Urges Patience as Kaizer Chiefs Enter Crucial First Fixtures

Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi has called for composure and a level-headed approach as the club prepares for a challenging start to the 2025/26 Betway Premiership. Although he isn’t boldly declaring a title charge, the Tunisian tactician has made it known that the team intends to be competitive across all competitions.

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After ending a decade-long wait for silverware by clinching the Nedbank Cup last season, expectations are high at Naturena. The Glamour Boys haven’t lifted the league title since Stuart Baxter’s reign in the 2014/15 campaign. Since then, the club has endured a frustrating mix of near-successes and disappointing finishes.

A New Chapter Begins

There’s a fresh sense of purpose at the club ahead of the new season. Stability in the technical team, spearheaded by Nabi, and a productive transfer window have fans and pundits tipping Chiefs to mount a serious challenge. But the man in charge isn’t buying into the hype just yet.

“We’re preparing to compete in all competitions, the league, the Nedbank Cup, and the CAF Confederation Cup, but our focus is game by game,” Nabi said during a recent media briefing at Princess Magogo Stadium.

He stressed that the team won’t look too far ahead. “We aim to win every match, though we know it won’t always be possible. What matters is that we fight in every game with the resources we have, and then assess where that leaves us.”

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Early Fixtures Offer Immediate Tests

Chiefs’ resolve will be put to the test from day one. They begin their campaign with a tough trip to Stellenbosch FC on 10 August. Stellies, known for their defensive organisation and strong home form, are unlikely to roll over.

The Glamour Boys will then host Polokwane City and Richards Bay at FNB Stadium. Although these sides don’t carry the same weight as title favourites, they have enough quality to trouble any team, particularly in the early stages of the season.

But it’s the fourth match of the campaign that stands out, an away showdown against reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns. A result in that fixture could either derail Chiefs’ momentum or fuel their belief that they’re back among the elite.

The first five matches wrap up with a trip to Golden Arrows, a club that has historically enjoyed making life difficult for Chiefs, especially on home soil.

Signs of Progress Despite Early Setback

Over the weekend, Chiefs suffered a narrow penalty shootout defeat (3-2) to Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko in the Toyota Cup. While the result was disappointing, there were encouraging signs of structure, discipline, and cohesion in Nabi’s setup, elements that have often been absent in previous seasons.

What stands out under Nabi is a no-nonsense mentality. He isn’t promising miracles, nor is he leaning into emotional appeals. Instead, his message is grounded in work ethic and execution: “no shortcuts, no showboating, just results earned through effort.”

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The Road Ahead: One Game at a Time

Chiefs will juggle four demanding competitions this season: the league, the Nedbank Cup, CAF Confederation Cup, and the Carling Knockout Cup. Managing that workload without compromising performance will be a key test of the squad’s depth and resilience.

If Amakhosi can navigate the opening rounds with discipline and avoid early missteps, they could build the kind of momentum needed for a legitimate push at honours. And if they fall short, Nabi remains committed to ensuring they fight for every inch, match by match.

Related article: Kaizer Chiefs Shirt Sales Soar After Nedbank Cup Win—But Can They Keep Winning?

Rethabile Nyelele

I’m a dedicated journalist and writer dedicated to delivering well-researched, engaging, and insightful stories. With… More »

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