Kaizer Chiefs Win Nedbank Cup 2025
Sello Masilo
In a pulsating encounter at Moses Mabhida Stadium, Kaizer Chiefs emerged victorious in the 2025 Nedbank Cup final, defeating arch-rivals Orlando Pirates 2-1. The win marks a significant achievement for Chiefs, ending their trophy drought and securing their first major silverware in over a decade.
Goals from Gaston Sirino and Yusuf Maart sealed the victory for the Amakhosi, who held their nerve in a tense finish to lift the coveted trophy. The match, attended by a sold-out crowd of 49,307 fans, showcased the intensity of the Soweto Derby, with both teams delivering a performance that kept supporters on the edge of their seats.
Match Highlights: A Game of High Drama
The 2025 Nedbank Cup final kicked off at 15:30 SAST on Saturday, 10 May 2025, with Kaizer Chiefs striking first. In the 10th minute, Gaston Sirino stepped up to take a penalty after a foul in the Pirates’ box. The striker calmly slotted the ball past goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, giving Chiefs an early lead. The home crowd erupted as Chiefs took control, forcing Pirates to rethink their approach.
Orlando Pirates hit back quickly, though. In the 16th minute, Evidence Makgopa rose high to meet a free kick from the left side of the box, heading it powerfully into the net past Chiefs’ goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma. The equalizer shifted the momentum, and the first half ended with the score tied at 1-1, setting up an exciting second half.
The game’s turning point came in the 79th minute when Yusuf Maart doubled Chiefs’ lead. Receiving a pinpoint cross from substitute Ashley Du Preez, Maart finished with his left foot, beating Chaine at his near post. The goal sparked wild celebrations among Chiefs’ fans, who could sense the trophy was within reach.
The final minutes were nail-biting. Pirates pushed hard for an equalizer, but Chiefs’ defense stood tall. Substitutions in the 87th minute saw Yusuf Maart and Makabi Lilepo replaced by Edson Castillo and George Matlou, who both received yellow cards in stoppage time for delaying tactics. At 95 minutes, the referee blew the final whistle, confirming Chiefs’ 2-1 victory and their status as Nedbank Cup champions.
Key Moments:
- 10’: Gaston Sirino scores from a penalty for Chiefs.
- 16’: Evidence Makgopa equalizes with a header for Pirates.
- 79’: Yusuf Maart nets the winning goal for Chiefs.
- 95’: Yellow cards for Edson Castillo and George Matlou as Chiefs hold on.
Key Player Performances: Stars of the Show
Gaston Sirino was a standout for Kaizer Chiefs, opening the scoring with a coolly taken penalty and posing a constant threat with his creativity. His five assists in 17 games this season underline his importance to the team, and his performance in the final was no exception. Yusuf Maart, the Chiefs’ captain, also shone brightly. His winning g
oal in the 79th minute capped a superb display in midfield, where he broke up Pirates’ attacks and drove his team forward.
For Orlando Pirates, Evidence Makgopa was the brightest spark. His equalizer showcased his aerial ability, adding to his tally of five goals in 19 games this season. Despite the loss, Makgopa’s physical presence kept Chiefs’ defenders on their toes throughout the match.
Tactical Analysis: Chiefs’ Strategy Pays Off
Kaizer Chiefs, led by coach Nasreddine Nabi, adopted a counter-attacking approach that capitalized on Pirates’ defensive gaps. Their compact backline, featuring Inácio Miguel and Edmilson Dove, frustrated Pirates’ attempts to break through, while quick transitions allowed Chiefs to strike at key moments. The substitution of Ashley Du Preez in the 72nd minute proved decisive, as his pace set up Maart’s goal.
Orlando Pirates, under assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi, controlled possession for much of the game but struggled to find a way past Chiefs’ resolute defense. Their reliance on set-pieces bore fruit with Makgopa’s header, but they lacked sharpness in open play. Midfielder Thalente Mbatha, who picked up a yellow card in the 83rd minute, worked hard to dictate the tempo, but Chiefs’ tactical discipline ultimately prevailed.
Fan Reactions: Joy and Disappointment Collide
The atmosphere at Moses Mabhida Stadium was nothing short of electric. Chiefs’ fans erupted in joy at the final whistle, celebrating the end of a nine-year wait for a major trophy. Social media buzzed with excitement, with supporters sharing real-time updates and hailing the victory as a turning point for the club. One fan posted on X, “Kaizer Chiefs are CHAMPIONS! What a game, what a win!”
Pirates’ fans, meanwhile, were left heartbroken. Despite their team’s strong showing, the loss stung, especially after their recent dominance over Chiefs in the league. The rollercoaster of emotions—from Makgopa’s equalizer to Maart’s late winner—kept supporters of both sides on edge until the very end.
Broader Implications: A Boost for Chiefs, A Setback for Pirates
For Kaizer Chiefs, this victory is a game-changer. Sitting ninth in the Betway Premiership, their season had been underwhelming until this cup run. Beating strong sides like Mamelodi Sundowns in the semi-finals and now Pirates in the final has reignited hope among fans and players alike. The win also secures a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup next season, offering Chiefs a chance to shine on the continental stage.
Orlando Pirates, despite the defeat, remain a force to be reckoned with. Their recent form—including a 2-1 league win over Chiefs on 3 May 2025—shows their quality. However, missing out on a third straight Nedbank Cup title is a blow, and they’ll need to regroup quickly as they chase the Premiership crown.
Historical Context: The Soweto Derby’s Rich Legacy
The Soweto Derby is more than just a football match—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Dating back to 1970, when Kaizer Chiefs was formed by ex-Pirates star Kaizer Motaung, the rivalry has produced countless memorable moments. This Nedbank Cup final joins that list, echoing Chiefs’ 2014 MTN8 win over Pirates at the same venue. With Pirates holding a strong recent record—winning five straight league matches against Chiefs—the Amakhosi’s victory adds a fresh twist to this storied rivalry.
Ticketing Chaos: Fans Face Challenges
The lead-up to the match wasn’t without drama. Ticketing issues plagued the event, with the Open Tickets platform crashing due to overwhelming demand. Fans reported failed transactions and delays, with many forced to seek refunds. Despite the chaos, Moses Mabhida Stadium was packed to its 49,307 capacity, and two public viewing areas in Durban ensured more supporters could join in. The match was also broadcast live on SuperSport PSL and SABC 1, reaching millions across South Africa.
Team Form and Season Context: A Tale of Contrasts
Kaizer Chiefs came into the final desperate to end their trophy drought. Their league form had been patchy, with losses to Marumo Gallants (1-2) and Golden Arrows (2-1) in April 2025, but their cup run told a different story. Victories over Free Agent, Chippa United, Stellenbosch FC, and Sundowns showed their grit, culminating in this historic win.
Orlando Pirates, meanwhile, were riding high. Their 2-1 league victory over Chiefs on 3 May 2025 was part of a strong run, though a 1-0 loss to Sekhukhune United on 30 April hinted at vulnerabilities. Their CAF Champions League campaign had been mixed, with draws against Pyramids FC and MC Alger, but they remained favorites to retain the Nedbank Cup—until Chiefs turned the tables.
Real-Time Updates from X: The Fans’ Perspective
Social media offered a front-row seat to the action. At half-time, with the score at 1-1, fans praised the intensity of the game. “Sirino’s penalty was class, but Makgopa’s header was unstoppable,” one X user wrote. When Maart scored in the 80th minute, Chiefs’ supporters went wild, while Pirates’ fans urged their team to fight back. The five minutes of stoppage time had everyone holding their breath, with the final whistle sparking a flood of celebratory posts.
Match Statistics: By the Numbers
The stats paint a picture of a tight contest. Orlando Pirates edged possession at 54%, while Chiefs managed 46%. Pirates had more shots (12 to Chiefs’ 8), but Chiefs were more clinical, with 4 shots on target to Pirates’ 3. Chiefs’ passing accuracy stood at 82%, slightly ahead of Pirates’ 79%, reflecting their efficiency in key moments.
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