Kaizer Chiefs legend heaps praise on Orlando Pirates’ Karim Kimvuidi and slams Relebohile Mofokeng and Patrick Maswanganyi for going missing in Nedbank Cup final - ‘Tito was not there, Rele was not there’

Kaizer Chiefs legend Doctor Khumalo has expressed his joy at seeing his former side lift a trophy after years of frustration. He praised Amakhosi for showing grit and character in the Nedbank Cup final win over arch-rivals Orlando Pirates.

While he gave Pirates credit for their overall performance, he did not hold back in criticising young Relebohile Mofokeng and playmaker Patrick Maswanganyi for failing to make an impact in such a high-stakes match.

Khumalo felt both players were expected to rise to the occasion but fell short when it mattered most. However, he reserved praise for Deon Hotto, who worked tirelessly and looked dangerous in moments. He was also impressed by Karim Kimvuidi, who came off the bench and offered Pirates a spark with his lively display.

Khumalo said the substitute showed hunger and creativity and was one of the few positives for the Buccaneers on the day.

“Looking at these pictures, I mean it’s long overdue. I know the last time we did that, it was at the same venue and the atmosphere was like this,” the legendary midfield maestro said, as reported by iDiski Times.

“But we need to give credit to Pirates. They came and they played, even though they might have lost the game, but I thought [some] Pirates players were good.

“I mean, look at Kimvuidi, he came in and changed the game, and I thought if we don’t take care of that guy, he is going to hurt us because Tito was not there, Mofokeng was not there, but Kimvuidi when he got in and Hotto.

“Those were the two guys I was worried about [for Chiefs] and also the inclusion of [Kabelo] Dlamini. But we look at Pirates’ programme, I think you can tell some of the players are fatigued.

“It’s not an excuse, but it’s from a footballing perspective, they are. I mean the travelling, semi-finals, all that throughout the season. I mean if we can count the guys that started – your Hotto, Chaine and Mofokeng they might have played probably 99% of the games.

“And the very same players are expected to be also playing for Bafana soon and they have been juggling club and national team.”

With Jose Riveiro stepping down, the baton will now be passed to assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi, ushering in a new era at Pirates.

This transition could open the door for underutilised talents to get more game time.

Players like former Maritzburg United attacker Kimvuidi may benefit from a fresh approach. The coaching change signals a shift in vision and opportunity for fringe players to step up.

The Buccaneers now prepare to bid farewell to Spaniard Riveiro, who will take charge for the final time against Golden Arrows.

It’s expected to be an emotional outing, with players eager to send him off with a strong performance.

Pirates will be aiming to secure all three points and honour their departing coach in style.