Sport

The soap opera continues for Kaizer Chiefs after cup defeat to Stellenbosch FC

Michael Sherman|Published

Kaizer Chiefs face a tumultuous season with their Carling Knockout exit to Stellenbosch FC, internal coaching changes, and uncertainty surrounding Nasreddine Nabi’s future. Picture: Itumeleng English/Independent Media

Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Media

At this early stage it's already a season rapidly devolving into one to forget for Kaizer Chiefs, with their latest setback on Sunday being their first-round Carling Knockout exit at the hands of Stellenbosch FC.

After a dull affair with 120 minutes of goalless football, the sides headed to a penalty shootout at Cape Town Stadium.

That was not before Chiefs goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari refused to be substituted for the shootout.

Chiefs would go on to lose the shootout 5-4, as fresh keeper Bruce Bvuma could not find his way onto the pitch.

Cedric Kaze Explains Substitution Decision Amid Nasreddine Nabi’s Departure

It meant after the exit, Kaizer Chiefs assistant coach Cedric Kaze not only had to attempt to explain the defeat but why his gloveman would not listen to the call to be substituted.

He didn’t really. He said his decision, along with fellow assistant Khalil Ben Youssef, to pull Ntwari was simply ignored, but that: “It was coming from a good intention. Maybe the way wasn't as good as it should be, but it's something that we will address internally.”

This after Nasreddine Nabi left his position as coach, reportedly due to wanting to spend time with his wife after she was involved in a car accident.

Nabi’s Potential Change of Heart: Chiefs Coach Uncertainty Continues

The latest development on this front, according to reports, is that Nabi may have changed his mind as he seeks to continue as Chiefs coach.

Chiefs said in a statement last week: “The matter is internal in nature and is being addressed through the appropriate processes.

“As this is an internal matter, no further details will be shared at this stage.

“We appreciate the continued support and understanding of our supporters and the broader football community. Any updates will be communicated through official club channels when appropriate.”

It’s clear to see then, the future of Chiefs is muddy at best and what happens next is anyone’s guess.

@Michael_Sherman

IOL Sport

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