Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi has urged Mdu Shabalala to deliver more consistent performances, acknowledging the significant pressure on the young forward to continue being a key player for the club.
Shabalala showcased his talent with a stunning goal in Kaizer Chiefs’ 1-0 victory over Chippa United in the Betway Premiership at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday.
The 20-year-old winger left four defenders in his wake before firing a powerful shot at the near post, beating Chippa’s goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
The goal marked a crucial moment in the match, helping the Chiefs secure their first win after a three-game winless streak.
The result lifted Kaizer Chiefs into the top eight of the league standings, with 15 points from 10 matches, providing a strong foundation for the club as they head into 2024.
Shabalala’s goal also reinforced his position as the team’s top scorer in the league, with four goals, one more than his teammate Ranga Chivaviro.
Despite Shabalala’s standout performance, Nabi emphasized the importance of maintaining consistency, a key factor for a player in his position at a high-profile club like Kaizer Chiefs.
“I don’t like to highlight individual players because I believe in team spirit and a collective mentality,” Nabi said after the match. “Shabalala is good but lacks consistency.
He carries a lot of responsibility for a big club like Kaizer Chiefs, which puts a lot of pressure on him.
That’s why he is sometimes good and sometimes not so good, but he is still young.
We want to congratulate him on his decisive goal and hope he becomes more consistent. Other youngsters should learn from him.”
The victory over Chippa United marked an important turning point for Kaizer Chiefs, and Nabi will hope that Shabalala can build on his recent performances as the team looks to continue their momentum into 2025.
The club’s next challenge will come on January 5, when they face Cape Town City at DHL Stadium.
