Join our football expert as he revisits five Nedbank Cup clashes that left the entire nation in disbelief.
The Nedbank Cup, often hailed as the ‘cup of dreams’, offers the perfect stage for underdog teams to face off against South Africa’s football heavyweights — and sometimes, to cause outright upsets! Clubs like Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates have learnt the hard way not to underestimate these gritty challengers. Here are some unforgettable shockers from the past that still have football fans talking.
Baroka 2-1 Kaizer Chiefs
The 2011 quarter-finals were full of surprises, especially when Baroka, then a third-tier team from Limpopo, defied all expectations. They overturned an early 1-0 deficit to send the mighty Kaizer Chiefs packing with a stunning 2-1 victory.
Maluti FET College 4-1 Orlando Pirates
One of the darkest days in Buccaneers’ history. Under coach Roger De Sa, Pirates fielded a weakened second-string side and suffered a humiliating 4-1 defeat at the hands of an obscure third-division Maluti FET College in the 2013 Nedbank Cup.
FC Cape Town 2-0 Kaizer Chiefs
In 2010, Kaizer Chiefs travelled to Botshabelo Stadium in Bloemfontein to face FC Cape Town. The hosts executed a brilliant defensive game plan that left Amakhosi frustrated. A goal in each half sealed an unexpected 2-0 win for FC Cape Town.
University of Pretoria 4-3 Kaizer Chiefs
This exciting match doubled as a showcase for emerging talents. Players like Mthokozisi Yende and Phenyo Mongalo tormented Kaizer Chiefs with skill and pace and eventually earned contracts at PSL giants. The underdogs triumphed 4-3, offering a memorable football lesson to the Soweto side.
