Kaizer Chiefs’ Derby dreams are at risk, as four stars are one card away from being suspended.
Amakhosi head coach Nasreddine Nabi faces a massive selection dilemma as crucial players teeter on the edge of suspension just days before the heated Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates on May 3.
With the Betway Premiership encounter just around the corner, the pressure is mounting, not just to win, but to preserve a full-strength squad for one of the season’s most anticipated clashes.
Four Chiefs stars walking a tightrope
When Chiefs host Marumo Gallants this Saturday at FNB Stadium, they’ll do so with a major cloud hanging over their squad. Wandile Duba, Inacio Miguel, Mduduzi Shabalala, and Tashreeq Morris each sit on three yellow cards. One more booking sidelines them for the derby.
That puts Coach Nabi in a high-stakes situation. Risk playing them and potentially lose them for the derby, or bench them and weaken the squad for a must-win Premiership fixture?
Duba’s form too hot to risk losing
Wandile Duba has emerged as a pivotal figure in Chiefs’ attack. With six goals across all competitions this season, his absence would deal a major blow to Amakhosi’s offensive firepower.
“Amakhosi would certainly want to have Duba available for both the derby in the Betway Premiership and the following one in the Nedbank Cup final a week later,” a source emphasized.
Resting Duba might protect him, but it could also cost Chiefs valuable points this weekend.
Shabalala’s impact makes him irreplaceable
Though often deployed as a substitute lately, Mduduzi Shabalala has made his presence count with four goals and two assists. His creativity and energy offer vital late-game impact, a factor that could swing the Soweto Derby.
“Not having him as an option for the Soweto Derby could be tricky for Nabi,” one insider warned.
Will Miguel Be risked or rested by Chiefs?
Inacio Miguel has just returned from injury, casting doubt over his availability against Gallants. Will Chiefs risk him now, or keep him fresh for the derby?
Nabi’s decision could spell the difference between a strong derby lineup and a depleted one.
Morris still goal-less—But too valuable to lose?
Tashreeq Morris may not have opened his scoring account yet, but his versatility and experience remain assets for Nabi. However, one rash tackle on Saturday could see him sidelined.
“He is another one who could miss out if he plays against Gallants and gets booked,” reports confirm.
Kaizer Chiefs cannot afford a slip-up in Saturday’s Betway Premiership clash at home. But with key players at risk, Nabi must balance ambition with caution.
One thing is certain, the pressure is on, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Stay tuned with The South African as Kaizer Chiefs’ Derby dreams are at risk.
Who should coach Nabi leave out of the squad?
Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
