Yusuf Maart the Hero as Kaizer Chiefs End 10-Year Trophy Drought with Nedbank Cup Victory
Kaizer Chiefs ended their ten-year wait for silverware by clinching the 2025 Nedbank Cup, a victory that also secured their return to continental football via the CAF Confederation Cup. Captain Yusuf Maart delivered the decisive moment, scoring a late winner in the final that sparked celebrations across South Africa.
Maart’s leadership had come under scrutiny in recent months, with figures like club legend Marks Maponyane questioning his ability to captain a club of Chiefs’ calibre. However, Maart responded with a commanding performance in both the Soweto Derby and the cup final, proving his value and silencing critics.
Vice-captain Inacio Miguel also came out in full support of Maart, dismissing any notions of tension and praising his captain’s courage, personality, and consistency. Miguel described Maart as “a great leader” who had stepped up when it mattered most.
This long-awaited trophy marks Chiefs’ first major success since 2015 and signals a turning point for the club. With two league fixtures remaining against Sekhukhune United and Polokwane City, Amakhosi will aim for a top-eight finish to cap off what has become a season of resurgence and redemption.
