Nabi returns to face Cardoso in bench duel of heavyweights

KAIZER Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns face off on Wednesday night in a clash that feels bigger than just three points.

- SMISO MSOMI & OBAKENG MELETSE

For Chiefs, it marks the long-awaited return of coach Nasreddine Nabi to the dugout after missing the first three matches of the season due to family commitments.

For Sundowns, it is about redemption after crashing out of the MINS semifinals against Orlando Pirates, a setback that has placed Portuguese coach Cardoso under immediate scrutiny.

Tactical Philosophies

Nabi’s arrival last season brought structure, intensity and a belief that Chiefs could compete at the very top again. His emphasis on compact defending and quick transitions has already carried the Glamour Boys to a perfect start — three wins from three, all without conceding a goal. Nabi though was not in the dugout for those matches.

That he has not been physically present for those matches makes their start even more remarkable. His return on Wednesday adds another layer of anticipation, as supporters will finally see him actively directing from the technical area.