Kaizer Chiefs have made it to the 2025 Nedbank Cup final, securing an unexpected 2-1 victory over Mamelodi Sundowns, the current league leaders.
Nabi Unveils Tactical Masterstroke Against Sundowns
The match was set alight when Sundowns’ star Teboho Mokoena scored a stunning free kick just before halftime. However, Chiefs responded in the second half with Wandile Duba equalizing in the 57th minute. Ashley Du Preez sealed the win with a goal in the 89th minute.
In the post-match press conference, Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi explained his tactical approach to overcoming the reigning champions: “In the last two games against Sundowns, we were unlucky not to convert our chances,” Nabi stated. “Today, our plan was to play deep. We knew Sundowns like to take risks with their centre-backs, and we aimed to exploit that. We focused on managing the first half and believed Sundowns, having just played against Esperance, would struggle with the 90-minute pace.”
Nabi also acknowledged the challenge of facing one of the best teams in Africa: “Sundowns have built their squad over many years, whereas we are still in the process of strengthening ours. Playing against a team like Sundowns is always difficult, but this time, we took our chances and proved we deserve to be in the final.”
Despite Sundowns’ past dominance, Nabi remains optimistic about Chiefs’ ongoing development, saying, “We had our opportunities but didn’t always convert them. In the end, it was about showing resilience, taking the right opportunities, and making sure we finish strong. Our team is evolving, and this victory shows we’re on the right path.”
