Kaizer Chiefs, Stadium Management SA, and SAPS have urged fans to arrive early for Saturday's Soweto derby to avoid a repeat of recent ticketing and safety challenges. Photo: Itumeleng English Independent Media
Image: Itumeleng English Independent Media
The major stakeholders of the Soweto derby — hosts Kaizer Chiefs, Stadium Management SA (SMSA), SAPS, and JMPD — spoke with one voice during the pre-match press conference on Thursday afternoon, urging supporters to “arrive early for the game”.
Dubbed the biggest spectacle on the local sporting calendar, all roads will lead to the Soweto derby clash between arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates at the sold-out 90,000-seater FNB Stadium on Saturday afternoon (3:30pm). The game is intriguing not only for bragging rights but also because of the three invaluable points at stake that could shape their respective Betway Premiership title aspirations.
SMSA, led by chief executive Bertie Grobbelaar, will host multitudes of supporters from across the country against the backdrop of teething problems with their new digital ticketing system, courtesy of in-house operator MyTicket.
In the Chiefs’ previous home games against Golden Arrows and Stellenbosch, SMSA experienced major challenges at the turnstiles as some fans struggled to scan their tickets. This resulted in some supporters forcing their way into the venue.
While unfamiliarity with the system and a lack of personnel contributed to the glitches, the largest factor was the late arrival of supporters.
According to feedback Grobbelaar received from both matches, those who arrived during the “Golden Hour” gave positive responses, while those who arrived within 30 minutes of kick-off had negative experiences. SMSA, eager to ensure a smooth entrance after deploying Fan Services personnel to assist with scanning, said they are determined to avoid a repeat of the situation where more supporters than the allocated number entered the precinct — such as the unauthorised 20 000 who gained access during the last derby.
“There’s no way to beat around the bush about it. We need to tackle it head-on. Late arrival is a huge safety risk,” Grobbelaar said.
“In a derby last year, we had more than 20,000 extra supporters at the game. During a joint decision with the relevant stakeholders, we agreed that we cannot allow that. That’s why I am asking people to stick with us regarding the new ticketing system.”
Chiefs, through their sponsors — including Carling Black Label, Vodacom, SuperSportBet, and Kappa — are pulling out all the stops to ensure there is entertainment and giveaways for early arrivals.
“Our partner Carling is also offering a chance for a lucky fan to win a ticket to attend the derby,” said Chiefs’ marketing and commercial director, Jessica Motaung. “Carling Black Label has also ensured that Boohle will be providing entertainment through her music.”
SAPS echoed the message, adding that they will not hesitate to enforce law and order.
“We are used to handling major events. This is one of the events where we will make sure that everything is well coordinated,” said General PF Kekana.
“We won’t tolerate overcrowding or the selling of fake or illegal tickets around the stadium. We also urge people to travel to the stadium in groups, as parking is limited.”
JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla advised supporters to use the park-and-ride system, as some routes will be closed to allow for better traffic flow.