Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi has expressed concern over the impact of criticism on club captain Yusuf Maart’s performances. Nabi believes that the constant attacks on Maart from supporters have taken a toll on his confidence and mental state, affecting his on-field contributions for the team.
Despite the criticism, Maart has shown glimpses of his quality in the last two matches for Chiefs. He provided two assists in the 2-1 victory over Richards Bay and another assist in the 2-2 draw with Royal AM. Nabi commended Maart for his recent performances but emphasized the need for the player to regain his confidence and continue to progress.
The 29-year-old skipper has been a target of online criticism, prompting him to avoid social media to shield himself from negative comments. Maart acknowledged the impact of social media on his emotions and stated that he focuses solely on his performance on the field.
In the match against Royal AM, Maart played a crucial role in setting up goals for his teammates Du Preez and Wandile Duba. However, Chiefs squandered several opportunities and allowed Royal AM to come back and salvage a point. Ayabulela Maxwele and Levy Mashiane scored for the opposition, denying Chiefs a consecutive league win.
Looking ahead, Chiefs will have a week to prepare for their upcoming Betway Premiership clash against Polokwane City at the old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Sunday. Nabi will be hoping that Maart can overcome the criticism and deliver a strong performance to help the team secure a victory.
The challenges faced by Maart highlight the pressure and scrutiny that professional footballers endure both on and off the field. Nabi’s support for his captain underscores the importance of mental resilience in overcoming external criticisms and maintaining a high level of performance in the competitive world of football.
