The stage is set for another crucial Soweto Derby clash – this time with silverware and history on the line – as Orlando Pirates take on Kaizer Chiefs in the Nedbank Cup Final at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban this afternoon.
Having already claimed bragging rights with a 2-1 win over Chiefs in last weekend’s Betway Premiership clash, the Buccaneers will be looking to repeat that result and give outgoing head coach Jose Riveiro the perfect send-off.
Click through our gallery above to see the predicted Orlando Pirates line-up for the Nedbank Cup Final.
Goals from Evidence Makgopa and Relebohile Mofokeng secured that league win at FNB Stadium, and the duo could once again play a crucial role in today’s encounter.
Victory today would mark Riveiro’s third successive Nedbank Cup title, a remarkable achievement that would cement his legacy in South African football before his expected departure at the end of the season.
The Spaniard has already led Pirates to three MTN8 trophies since 2022, and another treble of knockout titles would be a fitting finale.
But standing in his way is a Chiefs side desperate to end a decade-long trophy drought.
For coach Nasreddine Nabi, this is more than just a cup final – it’s a chance to redeem a frustrating first season in charge, marked by inconsistency and underwhelming league results.
Chiefs have not lifted a major trophy since the 2014/15 season, and a win today would not only bring much-needed silverware back to Naturena, but also offer a crucial morale boost heading into the off-season.
Both teams are expected to go full strength, and while Pirates head into the clash as slight favourites given their recent dominance in this rivalry, finals are rarely predictable – especially in a derby of this magnitude.
Fans can expect a high-intensity showdown, with attacking talents like Mohau Nkota, Relebohile Mofokeng, Ashley du Preez, and Pule Mmodi all capable of producing game-defining moments.
Will it be Riveiro’s perfect farewell with a third straight cup win? Or will Nabi end Amakhosi’s silverware drought and write his name into club history?
