4 Reasons Behind PSL’s Decision to Host the Nedbank Cup Final in Durban
The Premier Soccer League’s (PSL) announcement that this season’s Nedbank Cup final will take place in Durban has stirred strong reactions. The news is particularly from Gauteng-based supporters, who had hoped for the final to be held at Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium. However, circumstances forced a change of plans.
Why the Nedbank Cup Final Not at FNB Stadium?
Moses Mabhida Stadium manager Vusi Mazibuko confirmed that the PSL selected the Durban venue. This was after discovering that FNB Stadium’s vicinity would be occupied due to another major event. The event coincided with the final.
According to Mazibuko, the reasons for the decision are as follows:
- Ultra SA music festival – The Nasrec precinct, near FNB Stadium, is booked for the Ultra SA festival on 9 and 10 May. This affects the Nedbank Cup final scheduling.
- Operational challenges – Hosting both events on the same weekend would pose significant logistical and security risks.
- No formal bid from Durban – Mazibuko emphasised that Durban did not campaign. They did not offer incentives to host the final. The PSL made the call based on availability.
- Reliable alternative – Moses Mabhida Stadium has experience hosting major finals and was available for the required date.
Fan Frustration Over Venue Choice
The decision hasn’t sat well with many fans, especially those in Gauteng. They believe a match of this magnitude belongs at a bigger venue. FNB Stadium has a capacity of around 94,000, compared to Moses Mabhida’s 55,000. For a Soweto derby like the Nedbank Cup Final, that’s a significant loss in potential spectators.
Still, Durban has often been the PSL’s backup when scheduling challenges arise. This will be the city’s 19th cup final since 2010, highlighting its consistent role in South African football showpieces. Earlier this season, Moses Mabhida hosted the MTN8 final between Pirates and Stellenbosch. Meanwhile, Bloemfontein was the venue for the Carling Knockout final.
Ticketing and Security Measures
Concerns around ticket fraud have also been a factor. The February Soweto derby in Johannesburg was oversold, with over 12,000 fake tickets detected. This prompted Stadium Management SA to change its ticket provider, particularly for high-profile events like the upcoming Nedbank Cup Final.
“There are structures that deal with the management of the game, including tickets, access and dealing with other criminal elements that may creep in,” said Mazibuko.
Meetings involving the police, the PSL, stadium officials, and other stakeholders will be held. These meetings will finalize access and security plans before the Nedbank Cup Final match.
Also read: Nedbank Cup Final Tickets: Here’s How You Can Purchase the Tickets
Although the decision to move the final to Durban may not please everyone, it was driven by practical considerations rather than preference. The PSL had limited options due to scheduling conflicts in Gauteng. Therefore, Moses Mabhida presented a reliable alternative for hosting the Nedbank Cup Final.
Now, all attention turns to the field. Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates will reignite their fierce rivalry in pursuit of Nedbank Cup glory during the final.