Kaizer Chiefs star keeper celebrates new energy at Naturena as the new season unfolds.
Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen expresses excitement about the newfound optimism the club’s new technical team has infused into the squad for the 2024/2025 season. After a disappointing finish in 10th place last season under interim coach Cavin Johnson, Chiefs appointed Nasreddine Nabi to lead the team, marking a critical shift in direction.
The previous season’s 10th-place finish represented the lowest in Premier Soccer League history for Kaizer Chiefs. The club’s pursuit of Nabi, despite failing to secure him initially after his departure from Young Africans, underscores the urgency for change. With two wins to start the new season—a 2-1 victory over Marumo Gallants and a 3-1 win against AmaZulu. Chiefs lost 2-1 to Mamelodi Sundowns, but the team’s spirits remain high, having sold out three stadiums for their opening matches.
Renewed belief and motivation
“I think there’s a difference, it’s just that energy, that belief you know,” Petersen said, as quoted by iDiski Times.
He noted that while belief always existed within the team, past seasons dimmed that light.
“With the new technical team coming in, it’s just taking that thing off the light and making it shine again.” The seasoned goalkeeper emphasised that the returning players now feel a renewed hunger to achieve and excel.
Kaizer Chiefs’ ambitious mindset
“Playing for a team like Kaizer Chiefs’ calibre, you want to be the best,” Petersen stated. He attributes the team’s revitalization to the fresh mindset and energy instilled by the new coaching staff, fostering a culture of excellence and aspiration.
Petersen shared insights into working with the new goalkeeper coach, Ilyes Mzoughi, who joined Chiefs under Nabi’s guidance. Other notable technical team members include assistant coach Khalil Ben Youssef and strength and conditioning coach Safi Majdi. Following the departure of assistant coach Fernando Da Cruz to the Moroccan Football Federation, Mzoughi has stepped in to fill a crucial role.
Passion and growth in goalkeeping
“He brings that energy that a lot of goalkeepers have,” Petersen remarked about Mzoughi, as quoted by FARPost.
He acknowledged that goalkeepers often keep their emotions in check, but Mzoughi’s passion is contagious. “You can see him through his work, even if he’s speaking and the way he trains us.” The positive energy Mzoughi brings to the goalkeeping department encourages the players to excel, knowing they have his unwavering support.
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