Kaizer Chiefs secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup semifinal, thanks to a last-minute winner from substitute Ashley Du Preez. The win sets up a highly anticipated Soweto Derby final against Orlando Pirates, with the chance to finally lift a trophy within reach for Amakhosi.
The match at Loftus Versfeld stadium in Pretoria was evenly contested in the first half, with Teboho Mokoena giving Sundowns the lead with a stoppage-time free kick. However, Wandile Duba equalized for Chiefs in the 57th minute with a composed finish, setting the stage for Du Preez’s dramatic winner in the dying moments of the game.
Chiefs weathered an early storm from Sundowns and their makeshift defense of Solomons, Msimango, Dove, and Cross stood firm. Bruce Bvuma made a crucial save from Iqraam Rayners to keep Chiefs in the game. The midfield battle between Yusuf Maart, Thabo Cele, Marcello Allende, and Teboho Mokoena was intense, with both teams looking to gain control.
Gaston Sirino’s audacious long-range effort forced Bvuma into action, but it was Mokoena’s free kick that gave Sundowns the lead just before halftime. Chiefs responded strongly in the second half, pressuring Sundowns into mistakes and eventually equalizing through Duba’s smart interception and finish.
With the momentum on their side, Chiefs pushed for a winner, with Maart leading by example. Du Preez’s late goal sealed the victory for Chiefs, setting up a tantalizing final against arch-rivals Pirates at Moses Mabhida stadium in Durban on 10 May.
The thrilling semifinal showcased the determination and resilience of Kaizer Chiefs, who now have a golden opportunity to end their trophy drought in the upcoming Soweto Derby final. Fans can expect an electrifying clash between two of South Africa’s biggest clubs, with the Nedbank Cup title on the line.
