Posted in News, Team News on May 10, 2025.
Kaizer Chiefs head coach, Nasreddine Nabi has made four changes from last week’s match against old foes, Orlando Pirates. The two Soweto giants face each other in the Nedbank Cup just seven days after engaging in a league encounter. Coach Nabi’s side the team will adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation, a tactical set-up that he hopes will be effective.
Thabo Cele and captain Yusuf Maart will anchor the midfield, providing defensive solidity and creativity. Cele's return to the starting line-up brings much needed tenacity to the team, while Maart's leadership will be crucial in dictating the tempo of the game. Cele replaces Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, who will provide depth and options from the bench.
The defence has undergone slight adjustments, with Miguel Inacio coming in at centre-back alongside Zitha Kwinika. The experience Miguels gained in cup finals during his time at Petro de Luanda in the Angolan league will be invaluable in this high-pressure match. Edmilson Dove shifts to left back, while Dillon Solomons will cover right back. Brandon Petersen takes over in goal, replacing Bruce Bvuma.
In attack, Gaston Sirino will be supported by Pule Mmodi and Glody Lilepo, just behind striker, Wandile Duba, who missed last weekend’s game through suspension. Sirino's experience in big games will be crucial in this final, and his partnership with Mmodi and Lilepo will provide a potent attacking threat.
Coach Nabi has adopted an aggressive yet conservative approach, pushing three attacking players behind Duba to create scoring opportunities while maintaining defensive solidity. The midfield duo of Maart and Cele will provide cover for the defense, while the attacking trio will look to exploit any gaps in the Pirates' defence.
The Nedbank Cup final offers Kaizer Chiefs a chance to finish the season on a high note and end a decade long trophy drought, as well as claim bragging rights over their arch-rivals. With Nabi's experience in derbies, the team is confident of success, and the players are determined to prevail.
The match officials for the final are referee, Masixole Bambiso, assisted by Komohelo Ramutshindela and Kgara Mokoena, while Alfred Chavani comes in as the fourth official. Bongani Mpinda is the match commissioner.
Line-ups
Chiefs XI: Petersen (1), Kwinika (4), Inacio (84) Dove (2), Solomons (18), Maart © (8), Cele (21), Mmodi (13), Lilepo (99), Sirino (10), Duba (36)
Subs: Ntwari (30), Mashiane (19), Shabalala (42), Castillo (17), Matlou (22), Ngcobo (12), Mthethwa (5), Du Preez (9), Morris (40)
Coach: Nasreddine Nabi
Pirates XI: Chaine (24), Sibisi (5), Mbokazi (44), Van Rooyen (3), Masangwanyi (28), Mbatha (16), Makhaula (8), Mofokeng (38), Nkota (33), Hotto (7), Makgopa (17)
Subs: Buthelezi (35), Selepe (47), Radiopane (42), Mako (29), Xoki (27), Shandu (26), Kimvuidi (25), Mabasa (19), Dlamini (18)
Coach: Jose Riveiro