READ: Kaizer Chiefs Edge Orlando Pirates in Thrilling Nedbank Cup Final

Durban, May 11, 2025 – Kaizer Chiefs claimed the Nedbank Cup title with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over defending champions Orlando Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium. The Glamour Boys ended Pirates’ reign, denying them a sixth trophy in three years under coach Jose Riveiro.

Despite Pirates’ dominance in recent cup competitions, Chiefs capitalized on a crucial ten-minute spell in the second half to secure the win. Riveiro, reflecting on the match, described it as an “ugly” affair, marked by physical play and frequent interruptions. “Both sides didn’t produce much football,” the Spanish coach admitted, noting that Pirates controlled territory in the first half but failed to convert key chances.

Pirates took an early lead but struggled after striker Evidence Makgopa was forced off with a hamstring injury. Riveiro revealed that the substitution disrupted their plan to outlast Chiefs in the final 20 minutes and avoid extra time. “We lost control,” he said, pointing to a lack of sharpness in the closing stages.

The defeat comes just a week after Pirates triumphed over Chiefs in the Betway Premiership Soweto Derby. Riveiro, however, remained defiant, equating the pain of this loss to their recent CAF Champions League exit. “Each and every single game that we lose feels the same,” he stated, vowing to rally his squad for their remaining Premiership fixtures.

With the Nedbank Cup now in Chiefs’ hands, Pirates shift focus to their final Betway Premiership matches, aiming to end the season on a high.