Kaizer Chiefs Ready to Compete on All Fronts – Nabi Eyes League Glory and Continental Success

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi has made it clear: the 2025/26 season is not about rebuilding—it’s about reclaiming glory. After a decade-long drought finally ended with their recent Nedbank Cup triumph, the Amakhosi are entering the new campaign with renewed hunger and unwavering ambition.

Despite finishing outside the top eight for two consecutive seasons, Chiefs are optimistic about their chances this time around. Nabi has set the tone for the new season by promising fans that the Glamour Boys will not merely participate in competitions—they will compete to win.

The Turning Point: Nedbank Cup Victory Over Rivals Orlando Pirates

Kaizer Chiefs finally put an end to their 10-year trophy drought by lifting the Nedbank Cup last season—a historic victory made even sweeter as it came against their fiercest rivals, Orlando Pirates, in a tense final. The victory wasn’t just a trophy win; it was a symbol of resilience and a signal that the club was ready to rise again.

Nabi, who took over the reins with a mission to restore pride and purpose, has already made his mark. His tactical acumen and motivational leadership played a key role in orchestrating the club’s turnaround, even as the league form lagged behind.

Building for 2025/26: Nabi’s Bold Vision

Speaking to the media ahead of the new season, Nasreddine Nabi reaffirmed his intent to fight for every point, every goal, and every trophy.

“How we’re approaching the season with the league, the Nedbank Cup, and the CAF Confederations Cup is to take it game by game and do everything we can to win that game,” said Nabi.

He added, “Maybe it’s not gonna be possible to win all the games, maybe it is—but we’re going to challenge in every game, with whatever capabilities we have.”

This mindset reflects a significant shift in mentality within the squad. Chiefs are no longer looking to “catch up” with their competitors—they’re aiming to lead the charge, both domestically and continentally.

The Return to Continental Football

By winning the Nedbank Cup, Kaizer Chiefs secured their place in the CAF Confederation Cup, setting the stage for a return to the African stage. Chiefs last competed in CAF interclub competitions in 2021, when they reached the final of the CAF Champions League, only to lose to Egyptian giants Al Ahly.

Their participation in the Confederation Cup now provides another opportunity to show their class across the continent and grow the club’s reputation beyond South African borders.

Nabi believes continental experience is crucial not just for the club’s image, but also for developing players and creating a winning culture.

Recent Struggles in the League

Despite the Nedbank Cup joy, Kaizer Chiefs fans are still reeling from the club’s recent struggles in the DStv Premiership. Chiefs ended the last season outside the top eight for the second year running, a situation that would have been unimaginable during their dominant years.

The club’s last league title came in 2014/15, under Stuart Baxter, when the Amakhosi finished 12 points clear at the top. Since then, inconsistency, coaching changes, and poor recruitment have plagued their campaigns.

Nabi’s job now is to fix that. With strong support from management, a refreshed squad, and lessons learned from last season, the coach is confident that Chiefs can challenge for the league title in 2025/26.

“To challenge in every game and every competition, and after that we will see where we stand,” Nabi concluded.

A Proud History Worth Defending

Kaizer Chiefs are not just another South African football club—they are a legacy. Founded in 1970 by the legendary Kaizer Motaung, the club quickly rose to become a powerhouse in local and continental football.

Over the years, Chiefs have amassed an impressive collection of silverware, making them one of the most successful clubs in South African football history.

🏆 Kaizer Chiefs’ Major Trophies:

• South African League Titles (13):
  • Including the NSL and PSL eras, with the last being in 2014/15
• Nedbank Cup (13):
  • Formerly known as the Bob Save Super Bowl and Absa Cup
• MTN8 / Top 8 Titles (15):
  • One of the most successful clubs in this competition
• Telkom Knockout / Coca-Cola Cup (13):
  • Consistent dominance in knockout formats
• CAF Champions League Finalists (2020/21):
  • First South African team to reach the final since Orlando Pirates in 2013
• CAF Cup Winners’ Cup (2001):
  • Now merged into the Confederation Cup, this remains Chiefs’ only major continental trophy

Such history brings with it expectation, and the fans know what the gold and black badge should represent: excellence, discipline, and silverware.

The Players to Watch

With a renewed strategy and tactical system under Nabi, certain players are expected to shine in the new season. Young talents like Mduduzi Shabalala, Samkelo Zwane, and new signings from the off-season will be crucial in driving Chiefs forward.

Veterans such as Itumeleng Khune—now serving more as a mentor—continue to offer valuable leadership, while attacking reinforcements are expected to improve goal-scoring problems that have haunted Chiefs in recent years.

If Nabi can get his squad to gel quickly and avoid the injury troubles that disrupted last season, Chiefs fans may finally have a team that matches their passion and belief.

The Road Ahead: More Than Just Hope

There is a genuine sense of optimism at Naturena, and it’s not just talk. With the Nedbank Cup trophy now in their cabinet, Chiefs have broken the mental barrier of going a decade without silverware.

The next step? Consistency.

To mount a serious title challenge, Chiefs will need to:

• Win consistently at home
• Improve their away record
• Convert more chances in front of goal
• Maintain squad fitness during CAF travel commitments

If they manage to do that while staying mentally strong, there is no reason why Kaizer Chiefs can’t push for the league title and go deep in continental competition.

Final Thoughts

Kaizer Chiefs are at a crossroads—but for once, it’s the kind where all paths seem to lead toward progress. With Nasreddine Nabi instilling confidence, a trophy under their belt, and continental ambitions reignited, the Glamour Boys are once again aiming for the heights where they truly belong.

Amakhosi for life is not just a chant—it’s a mission statement. The 2025/26 season could be the year that mission is fulfilled.