Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen credits the coaches for his unexpected inclusion in the starting line-up ahead of Bruce Bvuma in the Nedbank Cup final against Orlando Pirates.
Chiefs ended their 10-year wait for silverware with a 2-1 victory over their Soweto rivals at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, securing not only the prestigious cup title but also a place in next season’s CAF Confederation Cup.
Petersen, 30, was a shock inclusion ahead of the in-form Bruce Bvuma, but head coach Nasreddine Nabi explained pre-match that he wanted to “protect” Bvuma following the emotional demands of back-to-back derbies. More importantly, he felt Petersen had earned his spot through sheer commitment and resilience.
Speaking after the final whistle, Petersen revealed the moment meant more than just a win – it was a vindication of faith, hard work, and belief.
“The amount of work all our goalkeepers put in at training is immense. Honestly, any one of us could have done the job today. But for me to be the one selected – it’s a massive honour. The coaches believed in me, even when I hadn’t played much, and that belief pushed me,” said the shot-stopper.
The keeper, who joined Amakhosi from Bidvest Wits in 2020, admitted the goalkeeping department had come under scrutiny in recent weeks, but their internal unity never wavered.
“We’ve taken a lot of criticism lately. There’s been real pressure. But today showed what we’re made of. To get this chance and to walk away with the trophy – it’s a dream come true.”
Having now spent four seasons with Chiefs without silverware until this moment, Petersen described the win as a release of years of frustration.
“I’ve been here four years, and every season we’ve been chasing that trophy. We’ve made promises to the fans – now we’ve finally delivered. We broke the curse.”