Kaizer Chiefs ended a 10-year trophy drought with a 2-1 surprise victory over Orlando Pirates in the Nedbank Cup final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.

Despite entering the match winless in their last seven games including a recent 2-1 Premiership loss to Pirates, Chiefs overcame Mamelodi Sundowns in the semifinals to reach the final. The Buccaneers meanwhile, were seeking a third consecutive Nedbank Cup title under outgoing coach Jose Riveiro, having already secured three straight MTN8 trophies.

Amakhosi took an early lead when Gaston Sirino converted a penalty in the first 15 minutes. Pirates responded within 10 minutes as Evidence Makgopa headed in a free-kick from Deon Hotto, marking his 10th goal of the season and second consecutive derby goal.

The second half saw limited chances, but Chiefs’ Yusuf Maart scored the decisive goal with a long-range strike using his weaker left foot. The victory secured Chiefs’ first major trophy since the 2014/15 league title, denying Pirates a historic Nedbank Cup three-peat.

Match Statistics

Photo: Darren Stewart/Gallo Images