Rare Nedbank Cup triumph sparks renewed hope for Kaizer Chiefs fans

As the dawn of a new season gives way to fresh hopes and aspirations, Kaizer Chiefs’ specialist goalkeeper coach Ilyes Mzoughi is brimming with anticipation and determination.

With the momentum of last season's rare success, namely winning the Nedbank Cup, Mzoughi understands that the expectations of supporters have grown stronger.

“Having won the Nedbank Cup, our supporters are expecting more trophies and the technical staff share that aspiration,” Mzoughi said, looking towards the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

The connection between the team and the country’s biggest fan base, he continued, is vital in this quest for continued success. “Their support is crucial — our unity gives us power,” he added profoundly, in an interview with kaizerchiefs.com.

Mzoughi highlighted the significance of solidarity in achieving their collective goals. His commitment to cultivating a fierce competitive edge in his goalkeepers stems not only from his tactical expertise but also from an understanding of the club's culture and its passionate fans.

As the team sets its sights on more trophies, the excitement resonates not just within the squad but also throughout the stands where devoted supporters rally behind the badge.

The synergy between the technical staff's aspirations and the passion of the fans is a poignant reminder of what makes football more than just a game; it is a community, a culture, and a shared dream.

The Tunisian-Frenchman embodies the demanding nature of football coaching, characterised by a serious work ethic. Yet, it’s his lighter side, characterised by an infectious smile and a knack for humour, that endears him to players and staff alike. “I’m only a call away,” he assures his goalkeepers.

The past season was fraught with adversity for the AmaKhosi goalkeepers. Rwanda-born Fiacre Ntwari began as the primary shot-stopper, but injuries struck, including a significant setback for Brandon Petersen, necessitating surgery. This led to Bruce Bvuma taking charge for most of the season, a challenging year where Chiefs finished in a disappointing ninth spot in the league table.

"It was a tough season, not only for the goalkeepers but for the whole team,” Mzoughi reflected. “We were unlucky with injuries and suspensions, impacting the keepers and overall team performance." Despite these hurdles, there were sparkling moments, particularly with Bvuma's “magnificent save” against Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup semi-final and Petersen’s impressive final performance.

One decision that took many by surprise was Petersen’s sudden inclusion in the cup final, overtaking Bvuma, who had been in fine form. Mzoughi shared the reasoning behind this strategy: “Bruce had a lingering calf injury and wasn’t 100% fit. Brandon had been training hard. When I asked if he was ready to play, he confidently replied: ‘I am ready!’”

The goalkeeper coach believes that the club’s passionate fanbase can sometimes be overly critical. “We must be realistic and support them,” he noted. “Our supporters can be demanding, and rightfully so, but it is essential for them to show love and support, no matter who is in goal. We are one family!”

Mzoughi’s journey in football began at the age of six in Tunisia. He initially played as a defender before fate led him to become a goalkeeper. His career took him across Europe and into the Gulf region, where he honed his coaching skills after a successful stint playing professionally.

Most recently, he served as the goalkeeper coach for the Mauritanian national team before being lured away by the opportunity to work alongside a familiar face, Nasreddine Nabi, at Chiefs.

In his coaching approach, Mzoughi is notably meticulous. “Not only are our games recorded, but also training sessions," he explained. This extensive review process allows him to assess weaknesses for improvement, ensuring a scientific approach to enhance tactical and fitness levels. “We prepare sessions based on discussions with the head coach, tailoring our tactics depending on the game plan," Mzoughi elaborated.

His penchant for honesty is another hallmark of his coaching style. "Better one word straight to the face than ten words behind someone’s back,” he quipped, underscoring his belief in forthright communication.