Kaizer Chiefs' time to deliver' as Orlando Pirates seek Nedbank Cup record

Kaizer Chiefs assistant coach Cedric Kaze says it’s time for Amakhosi to deliver, as they prepare to face Orlando Pirates in the Nedbank Cup final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday at 3:30 pm.

The final marks Chiefs’ first domestic cup final appearance in six years. Pirates, on the other hand, are chasing a historic third consecutive Nedbank Cup title under head coach José Riveiro.

With silverware on the line, pressure is mounting on both benches — but particularly on Chiefs', who are desperate to end their long-standing trophy drought.

Kaze, speaking ahead of the clash, used a vivid analogy to describe the team’s long and difficult campaign.

“We understand very well the frustrations of the fans and we share those frustrations as well,” he said.

“But coming into this game… I’m pretty sure, ladies will agree with me, you have been struggling nine months of pregnancy, now it’s time to deliver.”

“Everyone… the whole family needs to show up on the day; everyone who loves the family needs to show up, that’s the only advice I will give to them.”

Chiefs have once again battled inconsistency this season, echoing last year’s pattern of late-season collapse and underachievement.

The Naturena-based outfit currently occupy ninth on the Betway Premiership standings and are at a great possibility of missing out on the top eight for the second time in a row. 

Despite Nasreddine Nabi’s arrival bringing renewed optimism, the team’s performances have not consistently met expectations.

A win on Saturday could define not only the season but the future direction of the club under Nabi.

Kaze, who has worked alongside the Tunisian coach for nearly three years, says his experience from other African leagues has prepared him for this moment.

“It’s true that it’s a difficult season we’ve faced because of the expectations that are not met yet,” Kaze said.

“But he has a lot of experience from a lot of countries and teams. He understands the expectations, the struggles we are going through, which gives him the tools to prepare for the future.”

Kaze acknowledged that public criticism has come swiftly for Nabi, but insists the coach remains focused.

“Maybe he sometimes doesn’t understand the harsh judgement that he feels is too early to be made,” he said.

“But you know in football we have learned — not only in South Africa — that judgement is quick to come.”

“It’s the job he chose. I spoke to him this morning. He’s confident and very eager on the touchline on Saturday for the Nedbank Cup final.”

This will be Kaze’s fourth straight domestic cup final as a coach, having previously reached three others with Young Africans (Tanzania) and ASFAR (Morocco), where he won multiple trophies with Nabi.

Pirates, the defending champions, will arrive in Durban full of momentum, hoping to extend their dominance in knockout competitions.

For Chiefs, Saturday is not just a final — it’s a chance to restore pride, win over fans, and finally end a painful silverware drought.