Kaizer Chiefs celebrate beating Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup semi-final. Photo: Itumleng English Independent Media
Image: Itumleng English Independent Media
In a display of tactical nous, Kaizer Chiefs striker Wandile Duba has shed light on the strategic insight that propelled his team to victory in Sunday’s Nedbank Cup semi-final against the star-studded Mamelodi Sundowns line-up.
Duba revealed that coach Nasreddine Nabi had successfully identified and exploited a notable weakness in the game of Lucas Suarez, a usually reliable defender. This revelation has sparked excitement among the Chiefs' supporters and highlighted the importance of an astute coaching staff in football — one of five key takeaways from Mzansi’s local footie over the weekend.
Kaizer Chiefs' Wandile Duba scored against Mamelodi Sundowns. Photo: Itumeleng English Independent Media
Image: Itumeleng English Independent Media
Kaizer Chiefs striker Wandile Duba, who clinched the Player of the Match award, said Tunisian coach Nabi had pinpointed a specific vulnerability in Lucas Suarez’s game. Suarez was inclined to commit errors while attempting to distribute the ball. This insight became the cornerstone of Chiefs’ tactical framework as they sought to exploit the defender’s weakness.
Said Duba: “The coach instructed us to create a strategic trap for Suarez.
"We were to force him to play the ball centrally, making it harder for him to find his more experienced teammates. By limiting his options, we aimed to lessen his impact on the game.”
The Sundowns' Portuguese coach, Miguel Cardoso, visibly frustrated, pulled out his mobile phone at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium post-match press conference to showcase a video clip that he claimed illustrated a clear offside on Kaizer Chiefs’ second goal.
“You can see for yourselves,” said Cardoso, gesturing emphatically towards the phone’s screen. “Big offside.”
Critics have long argued that decisions made by referees can often overshadow the beautiful game, and this latest incident appears to be yet another case in point.
Orlando Pirates coach José Riveiro took a gamble by including Kabelo Dlamini in the starting line-up against Marumo Gallants, despite the 28-year-old having battled a fever the previous week. Dlamini, who had been sidelined for most league and Champions League matches, made his presence felt in the critical showdown, helping lead his team to a well-deserved victory with the game’s only goal.
Riveiro was pleased with Dlamini’s swift return to form: “Kabelo was not involved recently because he was sick, but he managed a good 60 minutes.”
The match not only highlighted the team’s overall capabilities but also underlined the importance of having versatile players ready to step up when called upon. The Pirates demonstrated their ambition and tactical dexterity — qualities that will be essential as their campaign progresses.
As Orlando Pirates prepare for yet another cup final, excitement is palpable among fans and players alike. This impending clash against long-time rivals Kaizer Chiefs is more than just a match; it promises to be a defining moment for the club and their relentless pursuit of glory.
Most football fans know that a game between the Pirates and the Chiefs is not just an athletic competition; it is an age-old rivalry steeped in history, emotion, and the pursuit of supremacy in South African football.
Pirates’ fans, known notoriously for their loyalty and passion, are ready to make their voices heard, filling the stadium with an electric atmosphere that sets the stage for an unforgettable showdown. Their unwavering support serves as a lifeline for the players, fuelling their determination to deliver a performance worthy of the Buccaneers' legacy.
The clock is ticking on coach José Riveiro’s era at the helm of Orlando Pirates, but he remains focused and committed as he prepares the team for their final challenges of the season. He has urged the players to dedicate themselves fully to every match.
On the eve of Sunday’s match against Gallants, he said: “In football, there’s no time for tears or regret. We must look ahead and ensure that we finish the season on a strong note. I expect nothing less.”
Riveiro’s greatest asset has been his ability to unite players from diverse backgrounds, fostering a culture of resilience and teamwork while emphasising tactical discipline.
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