DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA - MAY 10: Yusuf Maart, captain of Kaizer Chiefs celebrates scoring during the Nedbank Cup, Final match between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs at Moses Mabhida Stadium on May 10, 2025 in Durban, South Africa. (Photo by Darren Stewart/Gallo Images)
Kaizer Chiefs are back on top! After ten long years without a trophy, Amakhosi finally lifted silverware by beating fierce rivals Orlando Pirates 2-1 in a dramatic Nedbank Cup final at Moses Mabhida Stadium today.
The atmosphere was electric as thousands of fans filled the stadium for the Soweto Derby showdown. Both teams had a lot to prove, but it was Kaizer Chiefs who rose to the occasion and delivered a performance full of heart, hunger, and history.
⚽ First Half Drama
The game started with high intensity, and in the 16th minute, Chiefs were awarded a penalty after Pule Mmodi was brought down in the box. Gaston Sirino stepped up and calmly slotted it home to give Chiefs an early 1-0 lead.
But the Buccaneers didn’t take long to respond. Just seven minutes later, Pirates striker Evidence Makgopa rose above the Chiefs defense to head in a perfect cross, leveling the score at 1-1. The rest of the half saw both teams create chances, but neither could find the net again before the break.
🔥 Second Half – Maart’s Moment
In the second half, Chiefs showed more urgency and control. Their persistence finally paid off in the 80th minute when Yusuf Maart smashed in a powerful shot from outside the box, sending Chiefs fans into a frenzy.
Coach Nasreddine Nabi’s tactical decisions, including starting third-choice goalkeeper Brandon Petersen, were spot-on. Petersen made crucial saves late in the game, helping Chiefs hold their lead and secure the title.
🏅 History Made
This win is massive for Kaizer Chiefs. It’s their first trophy since 2015, ending a painful drought that left fans frustrated year after year. The victory also breaks their losing streak against Pirates in recent derbies.
For many players, especially those who’ve been at the club during the tough times, this win means more than just a cup — it’s redemption. For the fans, it’s a reason to believe again.
💬 What’s Next?
With the Nedbank Cup in the bag, the big question is: Can Chiefs build on this momentum and challenge for the league next season? If today’s performance is anything to go by, the future looks bright for Amakhosi.
One thing’s for sure — the glory days might just be returning to Naturena.
#Amakhosi4Life 🔥👑 #NedbankCupFinal2025 #KaizerChiefs
