sportskeeda
The leadership of eThekwini Municipality has assured the public that the Nedbank Cup final between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium this Saturday will proceed smoothly.
However, fans have expressed frustration as many rushed to supermarkets across Durban to purchase tickets on Monday at 10:00 AM, only to find that the ticketing system had encountered issues.
Open Tickets, the authorized vendor for ticket sales, admitted to disruptions on Tuesday, citing an unprecedented spike in demand that caused delays right after sales began.
Currently, the total number of tickets sold and remaining availability is unclear, as the Premier Soccer League (PSL) has not confirmed whether Open Tickets has resolved the system issues.
Nonetheless, the Durban Municipality has guaranteed that all arrangements are in place for Moses Mabhida Stadium to host the Nedbank Cup Final this weekend.
The stadium gates will open at 11:30 AM, with the match set to kick off at 3:30 PM.
“This will not be the first Soweto derby successfully hosted by the city in recent years,” stated the eThekwini Municipality.
“An integrated safety and security plan, involving all law enforcement agencies, has been established to ensure the safety of spectators in and around the stadium.
“Police will maintain a strong presence on the roads and in various entertainment venues.”
Dr. Vusi Mazibuko, Head of the City’s Stadia and Facilities Unit, highlighted that the stadium is fully prepared to welcome the anticipated thousands of football fans.
He noted that Moses Mabhida Stadium is renowned for hosting major, high-profile events that positively impact the local economy.
“The stadium has successfully welcomed numerous significant events without any issues. Effectively managing such large occasions helps foster a positive image of the city and enhances tourism,” he stated.
Regarding ongoing infrastructure upgrades that began last year, Dr. Mazibuko clarified that these do not compromise the stadium’s operations or safety.
“The stadium remains structurally sound and continues to host major events while repairs and maintenance are ongoing. The upgrades and maintenance occur concurrently with events,” Dr. Mazibuko added, noting that the stadium has held other football matches and music festivals during the renovation period without any incidents.
EThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba expressed confidence that the city will host an exceptional final.
“This will not be the first game featuring these two Soweto giants at Moses Mabhida Stadium. We have consistently satisfied our fans, and we assure those attending this match that we will ensure a safe and unforgettable cup final,” Mayor Xaba said.
Moses Mabhida Stadium has hosted the most cup finals, with this Nedbank Cup Derby marking the 18th event since the 2010 FIFA World Cup, including the MTN8 final between Pirates and Chiefs in 2014.
Despite undergoing significant renovations since the 2010 World Cup, Pirates played on Tuesday, clinching a 2-1 victory against Golden Arrows in the Betway Premiership.
