Glory at Last: Chiefs Sink Pirates to End 10-Year Silverware Wait

Africa 10 May 2025 at 19:23

Khaled Hegazy

News Editor

Kaizer Chiefs have finally ended their decade long wait for silverware with dramatic 2 - 1 victory over arch rivals Orlando Pirates in the Nedbank Cup final on Saturday at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Penalty Sparks Dream Start

The sold out Soweto Derby roared into life early. Chiefs were awarded penalty just 8 minutes in when Deano van Rooyen brought down Pule Mmodi inside the box. Veteran Gaston Sirino stepped up and calmly slotted it into the bottom corner to give Amakhosi perfect start.

But Pirates responded swiftly. Just 7 minute later, Bafana Bafana striker Evidence Makgopa ghosted into space at the far post and headed in from pinpoint Deon Hotto free kick.

Maart’s Redemption Seals Historic Win

The match remained on knife’s edge until the 80 minute. Under fire captain Yusuf Maart who'd endured harsh criticism this season, found redemption in the biggest moment.

Latching onto clever ball from Ashley du Preez, he smashed home left footed finish into the bottom corner to restore Chiefs lead.

Despite late pressure from Pirates including dangerous free kick by Kabelo Dlamini, Chiefs held firm. 3rd choice goalkeeper Brandon Petersen , starting in place of Bruce Bvuma , was rock solid throughout making key saves and commanding his area with authority.

"We’ve Delivered the Baby" - Kaze

Assistant coach Cedric Kaze beaming with emotion post match, compared the season’s journey to delivering a baby:

“It’s very big and nice baby that we’ve just delivered” he joked, referring to their rebuilding effort.

Head coach Nasreddine Nabi admitted the final wasn’t classic but emphasized the importance of winning over style:

“Finals aren't to be played, they are to be won”

Turning Point for Amakhosi

The victory marks the 1st major trophy for Nabi & Kaze since taking over at Naturena nine months ago and could signal the dawn of new era for Chiefs.

From Yusuf Maart’s leadership to Miguel Inacio’s return from injury, it was night of comebacks and vindication.

With 2 league games remaining, Chiefs sit ninth on the table and will hope to finish in the top 8. But for now, the cup triumph has reignited belief in the project and brought joy back to the Amakhosi faithful.