Kaizer Chiefs ended their 10-year trophy drought with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Orlando Pirates in the Nedbank Cup final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, May 10, 2025. The sold-out Soweto Derby delivered on drama and intensity, but it was Amakhosi who walked away with silverware for the first time since 2015 – and at the expense of their fiercest rivals.
The match got off to a thrilling start when Chiefs were awarded a penalty just 15 minutes in. Pule Mmodi was brought down by Deano van Rooyen, and veteran Gaston Sirino stepped up to convert from the spot in the 16th minute, sending the Chiefs supporters into a frenzy.
However, the Pirates quickly responded. Bafana Bafana striker Evidence Makgopa, who scored in last week’s league derby, rose unmarked at the far post to head home a 23rd-minute equaliser from a well-delivered free-kick by Deon Hotto. The match seemed to be settling into a familiar rhythm when Yusuf Maart, the much-maligned Chiefs midfielder, turned hero. He struck the decisive goal in the 80th minute – reacting quickly in the box to steer the ball past Sipho Chaine.
It was a moment of redemption for Maart and a turning point in a final that had hung in the balance for long stretches. Pirates had gone into the match as favourites, chasing a third straight Nedbank Cup crown and riding high after winning the last five meetings against Chiefs, including a league double this season. But Chiefs arrived in Durban with something to prove.
Coach Nasreddine Nabi made bold changes, including a start for third-choice goalkeeper Brandon Petersen, who replaced Bruce Bvuma, and the return of vice-captain Inacio Miguel after injury. The first half was played at a high tempo, with both teams exchanging chances.
Patrick Maswanganyi missed a good opportunity for Pirates from a Relebohile Mofokeng cross, while Mohau Nkota forced a sharp save from Petersen at the near post. Chiefs weathered the pressure and started the second half with renewed purpose. The midfield trio of Maart, Thabo Cele, and Siyethemba Sithebe began to assert themselves, while the backline remained composed. Miguel’s leadership at the back proved crucial, allowing Chiefs to absorb pressure and play on the break.
As the game edged towards extra time, it was Chiefs who found the extra gear. The move leading to Maart’s goal was a rare moment of fluidity, but it was enough to secure the win. Pirates threw numbers forward in the closing minutes, but their efforts were repelled by a determined Amakhosi defence. The full-time whistle sparked wild celebrations among the Chiefs faithful.
A season of frustration was washed away with a single, glorious result. For Pirates and coach Jose Riveiro, it was a disappointing end to an otherwise strong campaign. But on this biggest day of the season, it was Chiefs who stood tall.
In addition to the on-field action, the Nedbank Cup final brought an unexpected economic boom to Durban, especially for small businesses. Despite only 40,000 tickets being sold for the match at Moses Mabhida Stadium, which has a capacity of 56,000 seats, township businesses like Mahobza Car Wash and Shisanyama and Wiseman Carwash capitalized on the event by setting up fan parks to create a stadium atmosphere for those unable to attend.
Mahobza Dube, the owner of Mahobza Car Wash and Shisanyama in KwaMashu, opened their doors at 11am to welcome soccer lovers and provide food and drinks. “I am glad that there is an economic spin for us in the township as well. We can assure soccer lovers that their cars will be safe. And they will also be safe while enjoying the game with us,” Dube said.
The main fan parks were set up in Albert Park and along the Durban beachfront, where street vendors were permitted to sell food. The eThekwini municipality ensured that these venues provided a safe, outdoor, family-friendly atmosphere for football enthusiasts, with entertainment and activities planned for the day.
Despite the ticketing issues, all accommodation establishments in Durban were fully booked, with soccer fans flocking to the city in hopes of securing last-minute access to the stadium. Some Pirates fans even traveled from Parys in the Free State to be part of the atmosphere.
However, not all news was positive. The private office of King Misuzulu announced that the Zulu King would no longer attend the game due to a lack of coordination, citing the need for clear communication and preparation for such a high-profile event.
In the end, the Nedbank Cup final not only marked a significant victory for Kaizer Chiefs but also highlighted the vibrant community spirit and economic activity surrounding the event. As the dust settles on this monumental clash, fans and businesses alike will remember this day as one of triumph and celebration.
