Kaizer Chiefs have finally ended their decade-long wait for silverware, defeating arch-rivals Orlando Pirates 2-1 in the Nedbank Cup final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday. The victory marks their first major trophy since 2015 and secures a spot in next season’s CAF Confederation Cup.
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Match Summary
In front of a capacity crowd of 50,000, the Glamour Boys took an early lead in the 10th minute when Uruguayan midfielder Gaston Sirino converted a penalty. Orlando Pirates responded swiftly, equalising seven minutes later through a header by Evidence Makgopa after a well-delivered free-kick from Deon Hotto.
The match remained tightly contested until the 80th minute when Chiefs captain Yusuf Maart scored the decisive goal. Substitute Ashley du Preez provided a precise cut-back, allowing Maart to unleash a powerful left-footed volley from the edge of the box, sealing the victory for Chiefs.
Tactical Shifts and Key Performances
Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi’s second-half substitutions proved pivotal. The introduction of Mdu Shabalala and Ashley du Preez added dynamism to the attack, culminating in the match-winning goal. Nabi expressed his satisfaction post-match, stating, “Our second-half substitutions brought more balance to the team, and the players became more confident.”
For Pirates, the loss was a bitter pill, especially for outgoing coach Jose Riveiro, who remarked, “It was a very ugly match from beginning to end. It is difficult for us right now, but the club will recover.”
Significance of the Victory
This triumph not only ends a 10-year trophy drought for Kaizer Chiefs but also restores pride in a season where they have struggled in the league. The victory ensures their participation in the 2025/26 CAF Confederation Cup, offering a platform to re-establish themselves on the continental stage.
The win also adds to the rich history of the Soweto Derby, one of Africa’s most intense football rivalries, and provides a morale boost to the Chiefs’ faithful.
