Kaizer Chiefs End Decade-Long Trophy Drought with 2–1 Nedbank Cup Victory

Durban, May 10, 2025 – Kaizer Chiefs finally broke their ten-year silverware drought on Saturday, defeating fierce rivals Orlando Pirates 2–1 in the Nedbank Cup final at a sold-out Moses Mabhida Stadium. The victory, witnessed by over 50,000 passionate supporters, marks Chiefs’ first trophy since lifting the MTN8 in 2015 (eNCA).

Chiefs captain and midfield linchpin Moegamat Yusuf Maart emerged as the hero of the day, slotting home the decisive goal in the 80th minute. It capped a memorable afternoon that began when Uruguayan forward Gastón Sirino confidently converted a penalty in the 10th minute. Pirates’ Evidence Makgopa responded swiftly seven minutes later, heading in from a set-piece to level the contest—but Maart’s late strike ultimately proved the difference (eNCA).

In the jubilation that followed, Maart couldn’t resist a playful boast. “I’ll be wearing this medal—and even this match shirt—for no less than ten years,” he quipped, underscoring both the personal and collective significance of the triumph (Kickoff).

Despite a rocky league campaign that has left Chiefs in the bottom half of the Premier Soccer League with two games remaining, Saturday’s success has reignited optimism among supporters. Tunisian coach Nasreddine Nabi, hired to steer the club back to glory, admitted that the trophy provides much-needed relief. “We lost composure after Pirates drew level, but our adjustments at half-time gave us the balance and confidence we needed,” he reflected.

Across the dugout, Pirates coach José Riveiro—whose side had won four finals in a row under his tenure—voiced his frustration. “It was an ugly match, and it’s difficult to take this defeat, but Orlando Pirates will recover,” he said, lamenting the missed opportunity to deny Chiefs their long-awaited cup success.

For Kaizer Chiefs, this Nedbank Cup triumph not only adds a 15th domestic title to their illustrious history but also serves as a springboard for a final push toward a stronger finish in the league. As the club savours this long-overdue moment of glory, the message is clear: Amakhosi are back on the march.