Nabi vs Riveiro: Nedbank Cup Glory or Another Chiefs Collapse?

The stage is set for a thrilling climax to the season as Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates prepare to lock horns in the Nedbank Cup final at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium. For coaches Nasreddine Nabi and Jose Riveiro, this isn’t just a battle for silverware—it’s a fight for pride, legacy, and, perhaps, job security.

Riveiro’s Final Soweto Battle

Spaniard Jose Riveiro heads into the final with momentum, having just led the Buccaneers to a 2-1 win over Chiefs in last weekend’s Soweto Derby. That win not only handed bragging rights to Pirates fans, but also intensified pressure on their struggling rivals. Riveiro, who is expected to depart the club at the end of the season, is determined to sign off with a double against Amakhosi in just seven days.

“It’s always an honour to represent Pirates in a final,” Riveiro told the press. “We’ve built something strong, and now it’s about executing the game plan and disrupting Chiefs’ rhythm. They can beat us, but we must ensure we avoid that.”

The final gives Riveiro the chance to add another trophy to the cabinet after the MTN8 triumph, even as Pirates fall short in the league title chase. A third cup final in as many seasons would cement his legacy at the club, leaving on a high.

Nabi’s Last Shot at Redemption

In contrast, Nabi’s journey at Chiefs has been turbulent. Despite high hopes at the beginning of the season, the Tunisian tactician has faced a rollercoaster campaign. Chiefs’ league form has been underwhelming—they sit ninth, with only eight wins in 26 matches and a concerning goal drought.

Yet, there is a silver lining. Amakhosi have been clinical in the Nedbank Cup, leading the tournament in goals scored. The last time they achieved such scoring form before a final was back in the 1998/99 season. Could this be the revival Doctor Khumalo predicted?

Legendary former Chiefs midfielder Doctor Khumalo cautioned fans to be patient with Nabi, highlighting the deep structural work needed at Naturena. Still, he believed Nabi could bring a trophy in his first season. “Slowly but surely, he’ll fix what’s broken,” said Khumalo. “He might win a trophy.”

Nasreddine Nabi vs Jose Riveiro Stats Comparison

Stats current as of May 2025 and approximate due to competitions across multiple formats.

What’s at Stake

Beyond silverware, this final is about pride and reputation. For Riveiro, it’s a chance to bow out in style. For Nabi, it’s a shot at silencing critics and delivering Chiefs’ first trophy in a decade. Victory for Chiefs could spark belief and momentum heading into the next season. A defeat, however, might only worsen the turmoil in Naturena.

Who Has the Edge to Clinch Nedbank Cup?

Pirates go in with the psychological edge, having just beaten their opponents. They also boast a more settled squad and stronger recent form. Chiefs, however, have proven their scoring power in this cup competition and could spring a surprise if they play to their potential.

Riveiro will stick to his tactical discipline, looking to frustrate and unsettle Chiefs. Nabi, meanwhile, will hope for individual brilliance from players like Dillan Solomons and Glody Lilepo to break through.

In a game with so much on the line, the smallest margins will make the biggest difference.

Prediction: Based on recent form and tactical execution, Pirates are slight favourites. But if Nabi’s men can harness their cup form, a long-awaited trophy could finally arrive at Naturena.

Related article: Nedbank Cup Final Preview: Kaizer Chiefs vs Orlando Pirates – Predictions, Line-Up, Kick-Off