Chiefs out to shock Pirates again

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Kaizer Chiefs chase another major upset as they take on Orlando Pirates in a high-stakes Soweto Derby final, writes Dylan Johnson.

Chiefs stunned Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup semi-final, now they face the ultimate challenge, defeat their biggest rivals Pirates and rescue their season with silverware.

Amakhosi came from behind at Loftus Versfeld to beat the Brazilians 2-1 in a thrilling clash on Sunday. After conceding a stunning free-kick from Teboho Mokoena in first-half stoppage time, Chiefs responded with goals from Wandile Duba and Ashley Du Preez to book a place in the final. The late winner, calmly slotted by Du Preez, was a reminder that Chiefs still have fight left in them.

It was a win that may have saved coach Nasreddine Nabi’s job. Under pressure for much of the season, he saw his side rise to the occasion in the club’s biggest result of the campaign so far. A trophy would go a long way in silencing his critics and giving fans something to celebrate after another underwhelming league run.

The Buccaneers beat Marumo Gallants 1-0 in their semi-final, thanks to a first-half strike by Kabelo Dlamini after a smart setup by Patrick Maswanganyi. Pirates are now unbeaten in 14 Nedbank Cup matches and will feature in their third consecutive final under coach Jose Riveiro, who will be aiming to sign off with one more trophy before leaving at the end of the season.

While Chiefs are chasing redemption, Pirates are pushing for dominance. They remain in contention in the CAF Champions League, where they will host Egyptian side Pyramids in a semi-final this week.

The Soweto Derby always carries weight, but with a trophy on the line, the stakes couldn’t be higher. For Chiefs, this is about proving they still belong at the top. For Pirates, it’s a chance to confirm their status as the country’s top side.

Photo: Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images

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Dylan Johnson

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