Nedbank Cup final: Does Nasreddine Nabi's Kaizer Chiefs have what it takes to break Jose Riveiro's Orlando Pirates?

Despite a season riddled with inconsistency and ongoing pressure from their demanding fan base, Amakhosi showed pockets of resilience that carried them to the Nedbank Cup final. Their 2-1 come-from-behind win over Mamelodi Sundowns in the semi-final wasn’t flawless, but it was a gutsy display that hinted at a team slowly learning to dig deep when it matters.

Falling behind a side that has dominated local football for years could have led to another familiar collapse. Instead, they responded with renewed urgency, staying compact, taking their chances when they came and showing the kind of composure under pressure that has so often eluded them in recent years. It wasn’t a complete performance, and there are still clear areas that need improvement, but it was enough to suggest that this team, while still very much a work in progress, has developed a tougher edge — one they’ll need to sharpen even further if they hope to dethrone the defending champions.

But overcoming Pirates will require something truly special. The defending champions have made the Nedbank Cup their domain in recent seasons and they arrive at this final brimming with confidence. 

What makes Pirates so dangerous is their balance across the pitch. Their attacking play is sharp, often turning half-chances into goals, while their midfield provides both stability and quick transitions. Defensively, they’ve tightened up significantly, showing an ability to manage pressure and close out games with maturity when they are at their best. This is a team built for knockout football — composed, clinical and capable of stepping up when the moment demands it. And given their recent 2-1 win over Chiefs, they enter this final as favourites for good reason.

The tactical showdown between Nabi and Riveiro could well tip the scales in this final. Nabi’s spell at Chiefs has been anything but smooth, juggling the pressure of expectation with the challenge of reviving a side that has struggled for consistency in the league. While the Premier Soccer League campaign has fallen short of the club’s lofty standards, the Nedbank Cup presents a rare lifeline. It’s a chance for Nabi to win over the hearts of the Amakhosi faithful and provide a spark of hope for a brighter chapter.

Riveiro, in contrast, brings a level of continuity and calm that has translated into results. His Pirates side is drilled, disciplined and thrives in pressure moments. He doesn’t just chase performances, he delivers outcomes. With five trophies already under his belt, his blueprint is one of precision and pragmatism.

It’s a clash between a coach trying to revive a fallen giant and another who’s built a modern powerhouse. And come Saturday, the fine margins in decision-making and adaptability on the touchline could define who walks away with the silverware.

Let’s not overlook the psychological challenge Chiefs face: they haven’t defeated Pirates since a narrow 1-0 win back in February 2023. Under Nabi, they have already fallen short twice against their rivals in league encounters. To lift the trophy on Saturday, the Glamour boys will need to overcome not just the men in black and white, but a mental block that has kept them in Pirates’ shadow.

This is where experience must come to the forefront. It’s no longer just about tactics, but the belief, resilience and mental strength to push beyond the past will be crucial. This final presents a rare and precious opportunity, a chance to not only claim silverware but to vanquish past demons, restore pride and show the football world that they are still a force to be reckoned with.

Chiefs, this is your chance for redemption. The 2025 Nedbank Cup final is more than just another match; it’s your shot to break free from the shackles of disappointment and silence the doubters once and for all. 

After years of frustration, the club stands at the precipice of a new era, with a trophy within reach. This isn’t just about winning silverware. It’s about reclaiming your pride and restoring your legacy. A victory would send a powerful message: “Chiefs are back, and they’re ready to reclaim their place at the top.”

The pressure is on, but so is the opportunity to rewrite your story.

Nedbank Cup page

Kaizer Chiefs page

Orlando Pirates page