Kaizer Chiefs Manager Opens Up About Controversial Half-Time Chat

Holifil

04 Apr, 2025

Nasreddine Nabi reveals the conversation he had with center referee Sikhumbuzo Gasa during the half-time break in the clash against Mamelodi Sundowns.
The Kaizer Chiefs manager expressed his dissatisfaction with the South African referee's performance during their Premier Soccer League (PSL) match at FNB Stadium.
Mamelodi Sundowns’ second goal sparked significant controversy as Lucas Ribeiro was reportedly offside during the build-up play.

Alright, let me set the scene for you. Kaizer Chiefs manager Nasreddine Nabi has finally spoken out about what went down with center referee Sikhumbuzo Gasa during the half-time break of their intense clash against Mamelodi Sundowns. Nabi was visibly upset about Gasa’s decisions on the field, particularly regarding some calls that left the Kaizer Chiefs team and fans fuming.

Now, this wasn’t just any game. All three goals were scored in the first half, but it was Sundowns’ second goal that had everyone talking. That one play alone ignited a firestorm of debate, with many questioning whether the call was fair or not.

Nabi, who has a reputation for being vocal when it comes to his team’s performance, was especially irked by the referee’s officiating. The Tunisian coach made it crystal clear that he wasn’t pleased with how certain decisions were made, especially ones that could have swayed the outcome of the match.

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Nasreddine Nabi shares his thoughts on his discussion with referee Sikhumbuzo Gasa during the half-time break in Kaizer Chiefs' match against Mamelodi Sundowns. Photo: @KaizerChiefs. Source: Twitter

What Did Nabi Say to the Referee at Half-Time?

According to iDiskiTimes, Nabi didn’t hold back when speaking to the press after the game. He spilled the beans on exactly what he told the referee during that crucial half-time break. Here’s the scoop:

Nabi argued that Sundowns’ second goal was clearly offside, emphasizing that the play in question was off by a whopping two meters. He expressed his frustration during their exchange, saying, “We talk to the referee, [saying] the goal is big offside, 2 meters. We go to the [change] room, ‘you don’t need to give me a gift,’ I said to him.”

Let me break it down for you. Nabi wasn’t asking for any favors or handouts from the referee. He simply wanted the official to do his job properly and adhere to the rules of the game. In his own words, “I don’t need a gift; he needs to respect the rules of the game. You need to respect me; I don’t need any help from the referees.”

Nabi went on to stress that while he wasn’t making excuses, he wasn’t going to shy away from speaking his mind. He added, “But it’s not an excuse. If I lose, I lose, I continue cooking.” Translation? He’s ready to accept the outcome, but he’s also going to keep pushing for fairness on the field.

Kaizer Chiefs React to Disallowed Goal Against Sundowns

Controversy Surrounding Edson Castillo’s Goal

Briefly News had earlier reported that Kaizer Chiefs took to social media with two cryptic posts following the referee’s controversial decision to disallow Edson Castillo’s goal. Clearly, the Soweto giants weren’t satisfied with the call and felt that their moment of glory had been unfairly taken away.

This situation only added fuel to the fire, leaving fans and analysts alike questioning the integrity of the officiating. It’s moments like these that really test a team’s spirit, and it will be interesting to see how Kaizer Chiefs bounce back from this setback.