‘He’s a Soldier of This Club’ – Nabi on Chiefs’ Star

Ahead of a major top-of-the-table clash against Sekhukhune United, Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi has lauded the leadership and strong mentality of Zitha Kwinika, noting that his positive attitude has permeated throughout the entire squad. 

Kwinika's path to a starting role has been a challenging one. He was sidelined for almost an entire season, only getting his chance in the final five games, which included a memorable Nedbank Cup final victory against rivals Orlando Pirates.

This season has seen a similar story of determination. Kwinika was not part of the first two league wins but was brought back into the fold after an injury to Aden McCarthy. 

Since his return against Richards Bay, he has cemented his place in the starting eleven, playing a key role in the goalless draw against Mamelodi Sundowns and the recent 1-0 win over Golden Arrows, proving his value to the team's defensive efforts.

‘HE DELIVERED WHEN CALLED UPON’

“Zitha is a soldier of this club and everything we have noticed about him, is when he was not playing, when he was out of the squad, he never complained, his performances at training was very good, the respect he had for the technical staff and management and other players, even after not playing, he delivered when called upon,” Nabi said as quoted by iDiski Times.

“That is where you see someone who is meant to be a captain, he is meant to be a leader, everyone respects him so much here because of his attitude, because of the way he conducts himself and it’s very good to have that kind of player – before a player is he a true gentleman and we’re happy to have him here.”

The task for the Amakhosi is straightforward: maintain their perfect defensive record of five games without conceding and beat Babina Noko. If they succeed on Tuesday evening at FNB Stadium, they will take a decisive step and go to the top of the table.

“Obviously if you look at the log standings right now, it’s going to be a very tough game against a very tough opponent, they have shown they have players that have experience, a coach that is competent that has experience too,” Nabi stated.

“But we have felt this time during preparation, a real will from our players to do everything to get a positive result, it won’t be easy for us or for them.

“But it’s why it’s a game that is going to be played on details and the concentration during the whole game is a must and we will try and capitalise on the opportunities we get and be very concentrated, well organised when we’re out of possession.”