‘Not a one-hit wonder’ – Peterson sets tone as Kaizer Chiefs begin Nedbank Cup defence

Kaizer Chiefs captain Brandon Petersen says the club’s focus has shifted from ending a drought to protecting a standard, as Amakhosi prepare to defend their Nedbank Cup title following Thursday’s draw against Stellenbosch FC.

Chiefs were paired with the Winelands side in the last 32 of the competition, setting up another chapter in a cup rivalry that has delivered drama and fine margins in recent seasons.

For Peterson, the draw immediately sharpened the sense of responsibility that now comes with being defending champions.

“Going into the cup last season was for us to try to end the drought and now that we’ve ended it, our mindset now is to defend it and to ensure that we bring the trophy back home,” Petersen said.

“For us it’s important to represent ourselves well and just show we’re not a one hit wonder.”

Chiefs lifted the Nedbank Cup last season to end a prolonged silverware drought, a moment that restored belief but also raised expectations. 

Petersen believes the squad now understands that success brings a different type of pressure — one that demands consistency rather than relief.

“For me I know the players are looking forward to show that they want to win the Nedbank Cup and defend our title,” he added.

The draw against Stellenbosch brings familiarity rather than comfort. 

The two sides met in last season’s quarter-finals, with Chiefs emerging victorious on their way to lifting the trophy. That encounter remains part of the narrative, but circumstances have since shifted.

This season, Stellenbosch have struggled for rhythm in the league, failing to match the standards that previously made them one of the most consistent outfits in the Betway Premiership. However, their cup pedigree remains intact.

Earlier in the campaign, Stellies reached the MTN8 final, only to fall short after being beaten by Orlando Pirates. 

That experience, coupled with their Carling Knockout victory over Chiefs on penalties in the quarter-finals, underline their ability to rise in knockout football despite league inconsistencies.

Petersen expects another demanding contest, shaped by history as much as form.

“I think Stellenbosch again, my third time drawing them in a cup competition, it’s always an exciting fixture, one that always draws a crowd especially in Cape Town,” he said.

“So we are always looking forward to playing against them because it’s guaranteed entertaining football.”

Stellenbosch’s structure and discipline have often translated better in cups than in league play, where consistency is unforgiving. 

Chiefs, meanwhile, have to learn how to handle the shift from chasing trophies to defending them.

For Amakhosi, the early rounds of the Nedbank Cup are about setting tone and intent. Being holders means opponents approach differently, and margins tighten quickly.

Peterson’s message suggests a squad aware of the challenge but comfortable with expectation.

Chiefs know cup football does not reward reputation. It rewards clarity, composure and execution on the day. Against a Stellenbosch side already hardened by a cup final defeat this season, complacency is not an option.

The title defence begins with a familiar opponent. And for Chiefs, the message is clear: last season’s success was a statement — this season is about proving it was no accident.