Kaizer Chiefs fans erupted in celebration on Saturday as the club lifted the Nedbank Cup for the first time since 2013, defeating bitter rivals Orlando Pirates 1–0 at Moses Mabhida Stadium in a tension-filled Soweto Derby final.
Midfielder Yusuf Maart was the hero of the day, firing in a spectacular 30-yard strike in the 39th minute that left Pirates’ goalkeeper Sipho Chaine rooted. The goal, described as “world-class” by analysts, was enough to secure Amakhosi’s 14th Nedbank Cup title and their first major trophy in a decade.
“It’s been a long journey, but this win means everything to the club, the fans, and the players,” said Maart after being named Man of the Match. “I saw the space, trusted my technique and went for it.”
Orlando Pirates dominated possession and created chances throughout the second half, but Chiefs’ resolute defending, led by captain Brandon Petersen and Inacio Miguel, kept the Sea Robbers at bay.
For coach Nasreddine Nabi, the win marked a triumphant start to his reign at Naturena.
“The boys showed incredible commitment,” Nabi said in his post-match remarks. “We knew what this meant to the fans. It’s a special moment, and we’ll build on this.”
The final drew over 50,000 fans and millions more tuned in across the country via SuperSport and SABC. The result also exacted revenge for Chiefs, who lost to Pirates just a week earlier in a DStv Premiership clash.
The victory not only ends a painful trophy drought but reignites the spirit of one of South Africa’s most historic clubs. Amakhosi fans flooded social media with celebrations, many calling Maart’s strike “the goal of the season” and hailing the win as a “turning point.”
The 2025 Nedbank Cup triumph has now added fresh hope for Kaizer Chiefs supporters, signaling that the club is finally back in the race for top honours.
