Kaizer Chiefs vs Stellenbosch FC | Nedbank Cup
By Sello Masilo
Kaizer Chiefs delivered a stunning 3-1 victory over Stellenbosch FC in a thrilling Nedbank Cup quarter-final clash at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday evening. The Soweto giants showcased their resilience and attacking flair, securing their spot in the semi-finals with two dramatic injury-time goals. This win keeps Amakhosi’s hopes alive for their first major trophy in nearly a decade, igniting excitement among their passionate fanbase.
Introduction: A Night of Drama in Gqeberha
The Nedbank Cup quarter-final between Kaizer Chiefs and Stellenbosch FC was nothing short of a rollercoaster. Played in front of a sold-out crowd at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, the match had all the ingredients of a classic South African football encounter—tense moments, skillful play, and a nail-biting finish. Kaizer Chiefs emerged victorious with a 3-1 scoreline, thanks to goals from Inácio Miguel, Pule Mmodi, and Mfundo Vilakazi, while Andre de Jong scored a late equaliser for Stellenbosch that briefly threatened an upset.
This article dives deep into the match, breaking down key moments, standout performances, and what this result means for both teams. Packed with insights and updates, it’s your go-to guide for everything about this electrifying clash.
Match Report: How Kaizer Chiefs Clinched the Win
First Half: Chiefs Take the Lead
The game kicked off at 18:00 with both teams eager to stamp their authority early on. Kaizer Chiefs, under the guidance of coach Nasreddine Nabi, started brightly, controlling possession and pressing high. Stellenbosch, despite being the nominal home side, struggled to find their rhythm in the opening exchanges.
The breakthrough came in the “20th minute” when Inácio Miguel stepped up to convert a penalty. The spot-kick was awarded after a clumsy challenge in the Stellenbosch box, and the Chiefs captain calmly slotted the ball past goalkeeper Sage Stephens. The goal shifted the momentum firmly in favour of the visitors, who continued to pile pressure on Stellenbosch’s defence.
Stellenbosch responded with intent, pushing for an equaliser before the break. A notable chance came in the “27th minute” when Chumani Butsaka fired just over the bar, but Chiefs goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma remained largely untested. At halftime, the score stood at “Stellenbosch 0-1 Kaizer Chiefs,” setting the stage for an intense second half.
Second Half: Tension and Late Drama
The second half saw Stellenbosch come out with renewed energy, desperate to level the score. Coach Steve Barker made tactical adjustments, bringing on Andre de Jong and Lesiba Nku around the “60th minute” to bolster their attack. Meanwhile, Chiefs maintained their disciplined shape, looking to hit Stellenbosch on the counter.
As the clock ticked on, the game grew increasingly tight. Kaizer Chiefs dominated possession around the “75th minute,” but clear chances were scarce. Stellenbosch’s persistence finally paid off in the “86th minute” when Andre de Jong rose highest to head home a corner, making it “1-1.” The Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium erupted as the home fans sensed a potential turnaround.
However, Chiefs refused to buckle. In a dramatic twist, Pule Mmodi restored their lead in the “90+5th minute” with a clinical header from a well-worked move. Just as Stellenbosch pushed for another equaliser, teenage sensation Mfundo Vilakazi sealed the deal in the “90+11th minute” with a powerful shot from inside the box. The final whistle blew moments later, confirming a “Stellenbosch 1-3 Kaizer Chiefs” scoreline.
Key Moments That Defined the Match
1. Inácio Miguel’s Penalty (20’) – The early goal gave Chiefs a platform to build on and put Stellenbosch on the back foot.
2. Andre de Jong’s Equaliser (86’) – A moment of brilliance that briefly swung momentum towards Stellenbosch.
3. Pule Mmodi’s Late Header (90+5’) – A clutch finish that showcased Chiefs’ never-say-die attitude.
4. Mfundo Vilakazi’s Clincher (90+11’) – The youngster’s strike in added time killed off any hopes of a Stellenbosch comeback.Standout Performances
Thabo Cele: Man of the Match
Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Thabo Cele earned the “Nedbank Man of the Match” award for his tireless work in the engine room. His composure on the ball and ability to break up Stellenbosch’s attacks were pivotal in maintaining Chiefs’ control throughout the game.
Inácio Miguel: The Captain’s Influence
The Chiefs skipper led by example, scoring the opener and marshalling the defence with authority. His presence was a calming factor during Stellenbosch’s late surge.
Andre de Jong: Stellenbosch’s Spark
Despite the loss, de Jong’s late goal highlighted his quality. Coming off the bench, he nearly turned the tide for Stellies, proving why he’s a key asset for the team.
Team Lineups
Kaizer Chiefs Starting XI
• Bruce Bvuma (GK)
• Reeve Frosler
• Inácio Miguel
• Edmilson Dove
• Spiwe Msimango
• Thabo Cele
• Gaston Sirino
• Nkosingiphile Ngcobo
• Pule Mmodi
• Mduduzi Lilepo
• Ashley Du PreezSubstitutes: Petersen, Kwinika, Cross, Solomons, Matlou, Maart, Shabalala, Chivaviro, Vilakazi
Stellenbosch FC Starting XI
• Sage Stephens (GK)
• Fawaaz Basadien
• Olivier Touré
• Ismaël Touré
• Kyle Jurgens
• Jayden Adams
• Chumani Butsaka
• Sihle Nduli
• Devin Titus
• Ashley Cupido
• Lehlohonolo MojelaSubstitutes: Masuluke, Onyango, Jabaar, Palace, Mdaka, Phili, Nku, Barns, De Jong
What This Win Means for Kaizer Chiefs
For Kaizer Chiefs, this victory is a massive step towards ending their nine-year trophy drought. The Nedbank Cup represents their last realistic chance at silverware this season, with the Betway Premiership title slipping out of reach. Sitting eighth in the league with 28 points, Chiefs have struggled for consistency, but this result could be a turning point.
Coach Nasreddine Nabi praised his team’s mental strength, saying, “We showed character tonight. This is the Kaizer Chiefs I want to see—fighting until the last second.” The Tunisian tactician has now beaten Stellenbosch three times this season, reinforcing his tactical edge over Steve Barker’s side.
The semi-final berth also boosts morale among the Amakhosi faithful, who have endured a frustrating campaign. With players like Mmodi and Vilakazi stepping up, there’s renewed hope that Chiefs can go all the way in the competition.
Stellenbosch’s Disappointment and Next Steps
Stellenbosch FC will rue missed opportunities in this match. Despite their third-place standing in the Betway Premiership with 31 points, the Nedbank Cup exit is a blow to their ambitions of adding to their trophy cabinet. Coach Steve Barker expressed frustration over the late collapse, noting, “We fought hard to get back into it, but those final minutes hurt us.”
The Maroons have been in fine form, unbeaten in their last six matches prior to this loss. However, their inability to hold firm in stoppage time exposed defensive frailties that Barker will need to address. With the CAF Confederation Cup also on their plate, Stellenbosch must regroup quickly to maintain their momentum in the league.
The Bigger Picture: Nedbank Cup Quarter-Finals
This clash was one of four Nedbank Cup quarter-finals played over the weekend. Defending champions Orlando Pirates also advanced, defeating SuperSport United, while Mamelodi Sundowns and Marumo Gallants secured their semi-final spots. The presence of South Africa’s “Big 3”—Chiefs, Pirates, and Sundowns—ensures a blockbuster semi-final draw, set to be announced soon.
The Nedbank Cup, known for its unpredictability, continues to captivate fans. Kaizer Chiefs, with 13 titles, remain the competition’s most successful team, and this win keeps their legacy alive.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
The match sparked a frenzy on social media, with #NedbankCup trending across platforms like X. Fans hailed Chiefs’ late heroics, with one user posting, “Kaizer Chiefs are back! That’s the spirit we’ve been missing.” Others praised Vilakazi, dubbing him “the future of Amakhosi.”
Stellenbosch supporters, while disappointed, acknowledged their team’s effort. “We gave it our all, but Chiefs were clinical at the end,” one fan wrote. The late drama only amplified the buzz, cementing this game as a standout moment in the 2025 Nedbank Cup.
Venue Spotlight: Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium
The match was held at the iconic Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha, a venue with a capacity of 46,000. Originally built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, it’s become a fortress for big matches in South African football. Stellenbosch were forced to host the game here due to logistical issues in the Western Cape, a decision that drew criticism from Barker, who lamented the lack of home support.
The electric atmosphere, fueled by a packed house of Chiefs fans, played a role in the visitors’ late surge. “The crowd lifted us,” Mmodi said post-match, highlighting the impact of the Amakhosi faithful.
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