Safety concerns as fans threaten to camp in and enter Moses Mabhida for Nedbank Cup final without tickets

by Nomonde Simelane

After experiencing challenges and failing to secure their tickets for the upcoming Soweto Derby Nedbank Cup final on time due to selling out, some fans have revealed that they are still determined to be present at the game, even if it means camping at the stadium until the highly anticipated day.

What was supposed to be an exciting moment for Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates fans has rather resulted in anger and frustration, as a significant amount left empty handed with no tickets, despite the game reportedly selling out. Countless fans expressed disappointment as they could not secure their tickets online or in person, due to issues on Open Tickets’ side.

Recently, Durban-based Amazulu met clashed against Soweto Giants in a Betway Premiership match, where the Buccaneers pulled off an impressive 2-1 win, and saw fan-favourite Patrick ‘Tito’ Maswanganyi and Tshegofatso Mabaso emerging as the heroes of the day after slotting a goal each.

However, in an interesting turn of events, it appears that Pirates fans who were in attendance for the AmaZulu vs Orlando Pirates match-up have found an interesting solution to their ticket issue, which involves camping on the Moses Mabhida grounds until the day of the highly anticipated showdown between the two Soweto Giants. Others fans have threatened to enter Moses Mabhida, despite not securing their tickets on time.

Although the overwhelming interest in this match-up is a testament to the deep loyalty of these two fan bases, and also serves as a mere example of the love and passion South Africa has for soccer, it has also raised some safety concerns, and has fans wondering what measures the league will put in place to ensure the safety of attendees, particularly the young children.

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