AmaZulu head coach Pablo Franco Martin has acknowledged the capabilities of Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi ahead of their upcoming Betway Premiership clash.
The two teams will meet at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Wednesday. Usuthu will aim to recover from its 2-1 loss to Polokwane City in the season opener.
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Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Martin, who has previously faced Nabi in Tanzania, expressed respect for his counterpart, noting that Nabi is a tough coach to beat.
The two coaches’ familiarity adds an extra layer of intrigue to the match, as both will use their tactical knowledge and past experiences.
“I know Nasreddine (Nabi) for a long time ago, we played against each other (in Tanzania) and I know how difficult it is to beat him,” Cijimpi said.
“I’m sure that he is bringing fresh air to Kaizer Chiefs and any coach when comes to a new team will do anything like that, also he has experience on the other hand I think it’s going to be difficult because we know each other.
“I think it’s going to be an interesting battle.”
The former Real Madrid assistant coach also mentioned that while he and Nabi might plan for each other, the outcome of the game will ultimately depend on the players on the pitch, as they are the ones who make the crucial decisions during the match.
“I also think we are not the important ones on the day (coaches) the important ones are those who have the talent (players) to be on the pitch, controlling their emotions, and I’m 100% sure that our guys (AmaZulu players) are going to be better than the other guys (Chiefs).
“And I think we already showed them what we are capable of we’ve already beaten them last season.
“I’m looking forward to the game to see how AmaZulu players are going to be able to beat Chiefs players who are the main characters of the match, not coaches.”
🟢 𝗙𝗜𝗥𝗦𝗧 𝗛𝗢𝗠𝗘 𝗚𝗔𝗠𝗘 🏟️
— AmaZulu FC (@AmaZuluFootball) September 17, 2024
Don't miss out on our first home game of the season against @KaizerChiefs on Wednesday, the 25th of September at Moses Mabhida Stadium 🎫
We need you to help us defend our turf. Tickets are available at @TicketProSA retailers and AmaZulu Fan… pic.twitter.com/lBzrRnOzLU
