Kaizer Chiefs number one responds to criticism after Amakhosi struggles.
Chiefs’ goalkeeper, Fiacre Ntwari, has addressed criticism surrounding his performances, asserting that the team’s struggles go beyond his individual errors. After joining Chiefs in the 2024/25 season with high expectations following a successful stint at TS Galaxy, Ntwari has faced mounting pressure as his performances have failed to meet the club’s standards.
Since becoming Kaizer Chiefs’ preferred goalkeeper under head coach Nasreddine Nabi, Ntwari has come under heavy criticism for his unconvincing displays. Despite being ahead of Bruce Bvuma, Brandon Peterson, and Bontle Molefe, Ntwari has struggled to find form, with fans voicing their frustrations.
Poor results fuel supporters frustration
Ntwari’s performance issues were highlighted during a 4-0 loss to Mamelodi Sundowns in the Carling Knockout Cup and a 2-2 draw against Magesi in the league. Chiefs fans, frustrated with the poor results, resorted to booing Ntwari during some games.
Ntwari has conceded in all five of Chiefs’ league matches this season, allowing 11 goals in seven games across all competitions. With only one clean sheet, the pressure is mounting for Ntwari to improve his performances.
‘The whole team Is struggling’
Despite the criticism, Ntwari defended himself, stating that the team’s overall struggles should not be blamed on him alone. “It’s not about me being the problem,” Ntwari said, as quoted by Rwanda’s The New Times. “The issue is that the team isn’t in a good place right now.”
He explained that Chiefs began the season well, but recent results have been disappointing. “We started the season well, but over the last three games, we haven’t performed as expected. This is a team with a passionate fan base, and the pressure to win every match is always there,” Ntwari added.
Ntwari acknowledges frustrations
The 25-year-old goalkeeper also recognized the frustrations of Chiefs fans, acknowledging that such situations are common in football. “It’s not a big deal. These things happen in football. You can’t win every match, and sometimes fans don’t handle that well. But that’s the reality of the sport,” he said.
Ntwari emphasised the importance of hard work to turn things around, stating, “Sometimes players are at fault, but the only way forward is to keep working hard. We will continue giving everything to ensure the team gets back on track.”
Ntwari’s challenges were compounded by an injury he sustained while on international duty with Rwanda. During a 2-1 win over Nigeria in the AFCON qualifiers. Ntwari had to be substituted in the 69th minute due to injury, further complicating his situation.
Stay tuned with The South African as Kaizer Chiefs number one responds to criticism.
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