Kaizer Chiefs legend Marks Maponyane has pinpointed a critical area where new coach Nasreddine Nabi needs to adjust his approach with the club’s youngsters ahead of the new season.
Nabi’s reign as Chiefs coach got off to a disappointing start on Sunday as the Soweto giants suffered a humiliating 4-0 defeat to Tanzanian powerhouse Young Africans in the inaugural Toyota Cup.
This pre-season cup result undoubtedly left a bitter taste in the mouths of the passionate Chiefs faithful who packed the Free State Stadium.
Despite the heavy loss, the match provided Nabi with an opportunity to assess the club’s young talent. The Tunisian tactician handed starts to attacking duo Mfundo Vilakazi and Mduduzi Shabalala, while Samkelo Zwane featured in midfield and Nkosana Mbuthu at left-back. A host of other promising youngsters, including Wandile Duba, Donay Jansen, and Manqoba Ozoemena, were also included in the matchday squad.
MAPONYANE SAYS CHIEFS’ YOUNGSTERS SHOULDN’T BE SHOWBOATING, ESPECIALLY WHEN THE TEAM IS LOSING
Maponyane has expressed concern over the showboating tendencies of some young players, particularly when the team is struggling. The former Chiefs striker highlighted starlet Vilakazi’s display against Yanga as an example of this behaviour.
“But showboating is not my kind of thing. I know some say it’s Mzansi style,” Maponyane told Radio2000. “But why [do it] when the team is losing? The coach must put his foot down about this.”
However, Maponyane was impressed by the youngsters, especially Mbuthu, despite his costly mistake at the back that led to a goal.
“The youngsters did well, especially Mbuthu when he moved into midfield. The coach kept him on and gave him confidence even after the mistake,” he added.
Many Amakhosi youngsters are expected to feature and get some playing time in the 2024/25 season, as Nabi is known to be a fan of younger players.
Chiefs, who failed to qualify for the MTN8, will start their campaign in the Betway Premiership on Saturday, 14 September. They will return to Bloemfontein to take on Marumo Gallants.
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