SEDIBENG.- Abia ‘Soul Provider’ Nale was part of the Kaizer Chiefs Legends team that lost against their bitter rivals, Orlando Pirates, in the Clash of Legends Tournament in Gaborone, Botswana, on Saturday.

Nale was the only former soccer player from the Vaal Triangle featured in this tournament in Amakhosi’s gold and black colours.

Pirates walked away with derby bragging rights when they beat their rivals 1-0 in the first semi-finals with Mpho Makola’s courtesy goal. As if this is not enough, Pirates Legends were crowned the Clash of Legends Tournament champions after they beat Mochud Centre Chiefs Legends 3-0 in the finals.

Pirates Legends featured some familiar faces like Moneeb Joseph, Lucky Lekgwathi, Happy Jele, Dikgang Mabalane, Katlekgo Mashego, Sifiso Moyeni, and Clifford Ngobeni.

It was not just about the game!

On the other hand, Chiefs also brought their best legends such as Jabu Mahlangu (formerly Jabu Pule), Reneilwe Letsholonyane, Josta Dladla, Nhlanhla Kubheka, Tefu Mashamaite, Morgan Gould, Thuso Phala, Cyril Nzama, and Nale.   

It was not just about the game, but a trip down memory lane as legends from both teams reflected on their prime playing alongside and against each other.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Sport, Nale said it was such a great feeling to reunite with his former teammates.

They still gave us, the former players, the same respect they gave when we were still players.

He said it was also a great honour to play against some Orlando Pirates legends he had played against during his days with Amakhosi. He told Sedibeng Ster Sport that he felt like he was still playing for Chiefs. He said he had a great time at Kaizer Chiefs and made good friends there.

“My blood is still black and gold, and I will be grateful for how the club treated me during my stay there. Chiefs is the best institution, and they still gave us, the former players, the same respect they gave when we were still players. I want to thank the Chiefs for this opportunity to be part of this great, legendary club even beyond my playing career.”

I feel honoured.

” I really feel honoured to be part of these legends who were tasked with the huge responsibility to represent the club at this tournament. We were unfortunate to lose our first game to the Pirates. Congratulations to Pirates for winning the tournament,” said Nale.