Kaizer Chiefs Coach Nasreddine Nabi
Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi set to return for crucial clash against Mamelodi Sundowns after family emergency involving his wife’s critical accident in Tunisia, with the highly anticipated Betway Premiership match scheduled for Wednesday, 27 August 2025 at FNB Stadium.
In a significant boost for Kaizer Chiefs amid their flawless start to the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season, head coach Nasreddine Nabi is poised to resume his duties on the touchline for the upcoming showdown against defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns. Nabi, who has been absent since early August due to a distressing family crisis in his home country of Tunisia, will rejoin the squad this week to spearhead preparations for the high-stakes encounter. This development comes as Amakhosi maintain their position at the top of the league table with three consecutive victories, showcasing resilience under interim leadership while their tactician attended to personal matters. The return of the Tunisian-born coach is expected to inject fresh energy into the team as they face one of their toughest tests yet in the campaign.
The family emergency that prompted Nabi’s departure unfolded on 8 August 2025, when Kaizer Chiefs issued a statement revealing that the coach’s wife had been involved in a severe accident at their home in Tunisia. Described as a “critical accident,” the incident required Nabi’s immediate presence, leading him to fly back that evening to be by her side during her treatment and recovery. Club officials emphasised the gravity of the situation, noting that Nabi’s stay was extended as his wife underwent necessary medical procedures. This unexpected turn forced Nabi to miss the opening fixtures of the season, a period during which he remained actively involved remotely, providing strategic input and maintaining communication with his technical team.
Assistant coach Khalil Ben Youssef, a fellow Tunisian and long-time collaborator with Nabi, stepped up to lead the side in his absence. Ben Youssef confirmed Nabi’s impending return in a recent update, stating: “Coach Nabi will rejoin the squad this week to begin preparations for the match against Mamelodi Sundowns.” This assurance has quelled concerns among fans about the team’s momentum, especially given Chiefs’ impressive form without their head coach physically present. Nabi, who joined Kaizer Chiefs in July 2025 after a successful stint with Moroccan club AS FAR—where he led them to a Botola Pro title and a Throne Cup final—has been credited with instilling a new philosophy of attacking football and defensive solidity.
Under Nabi’s remote guidance and Ben Youssef’s on-field execution, Kaizer Chiefs have kicked off the season in remarkable fashion, securing maximum points from their first three Betway Premiership matches. Their campaign began with a convincing 2-1 victory over Marumo Gallants on 9 August 2025 at FNB Stadium, where new signings like Gaston Sirino and Rushwin Dortley made immediate impacts. This was followed by a hard-fought 1-0 win against Golden Arrows on 13 August 2025, demonstrating improved defensive organisation. The most recent triumph came on 19 August 2025, with a 1-0 home win over Richards Bay FC, courtesy of a second-half goal from Mduduzi Shabalala. These results have propelled Chiefs to second place in the standings with nine points, level with leaders Sekhukhune United but trailing on goal difference. The team’s goal tally stands at four scored and one conceded, highlighting a balanced approach that has sparked early optimism among supporters.
The upcoming fixture against Mamelodi Sundowns on 27 August 2025 at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg is billed as a blockbuster clash, pitting two of South African football’s giants against each other. Kick-off is set for 19:30 SAST, with live coverage expected on SuperSport PSL and SABC. Sundowns, the perennial title holders, have had a mixed start with two wins and one draw, accumulating seven points to sit third in the table. Their recent 2-0 victory over Magesi FC on 20 August 2025, featuring goals from Jayden Adams and Peter Shalulile, underscores their depth despite a demanding schedule that includes MTN8 commitments. Historically, Sundowns have dominated this rivalry, winning the last five league encounters, including a 5-1 thrashing in April 2025. However, Chiefs’ current form and Nabi’s tactical acumen could make this a more competitive affair.     
Nabi’s return is particularly timely, as it allows him to personally oversee training sessions and implement his vision ahead of this pivotal game. The 59-year-old coach, known for his meticulous preparation and emphasis on youth development, has already endeared himself to Chiefs fans by promoting academy products and fostering a winning mentality. His previous successes include guiding Young Africans SC to back-to-back Tanzanian Premier League titles and a CAF Confederation Cup final in 2023. Despite the personal challenges, Nabi has expressed commitment to Chiefs’ revival, aiming to end their decade-long trophy drought.
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