Khoza threatens PSL may move derby to Moses Mabhida

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Opens in new windowOpens in new windowOpens in new windowOpens in new windowEnter fullscreen mode displaying this image.ExpandSoccer fans at FNB Stadium before the Soweto derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs at FNB stadium, Soweto. Picture: Antonio Muchave Story audio is generated using AI

Premier Soccer League (PSL) chairman Irvin Khoza has hinted that the Soweto derby could move to Moses Mabhida Stadium in the future, as FNB Stadium faces intense scrutiny and investigations after Saturday’s chaos.

Crowd control remains a major problem at the derby, and despite Stadium Management SA CEO Bertie Grobbelaar outlining plans for the previous derby to curb overcrowding, issues persisted on Saturday.

The venue was overcrowded, with alleged incidents of security staff taking bribes from supporters without tickets to enter the stadium.

Some supporters who arrived just minutes before kickoff were locked out because the stadium was full. This forced a group to push through the gates, creating security risks and safety concerns.

Khoza said stakeholders involved in hosting matches at the venue were failing to fulfil their responsibilities.

“We went to Durban for the final of Pirates and Chiefs in the Nedbank [Cup]; nothing of the sort happened. Pirates and Sundowns, nothing of the sort happened, why here?” Khoza told eNCA.

“There are certain role players who are not playing their part, but I cannot name and shame them on television because I’ve asked for a briefing on Thursday to make sure that if they don’t make up the act, we’re going to name and shame them because they are letting us down.”

Khoza said Moses Mabhida Stadium had been a good host and hadn’t experienced problems with big matches.

“Maybe in the future, instead of going to FNB Stadium, let’s go to Durban because they are good hosts. They do things professionally. All our events are seamless.”

It was reported that because the stadium was too full, 6,000 spectators were locked out of FNB Stadium on Saturday despite having tickets, including some with suite tickets.

A video circulated on social media also showed angry fans vandalising the barriers and damaging steel gates after being refused entry to the venue.

Grobbelaar could not be reached for a comment.

Meanwhile, Moses Mabhida Stadium manager Zakhi Mkhize says the venue is ready to host big matches in Durban, including the derby.

“Moses Mabhida is a soccer stadium that welcomes big-match content like the derby,” Mkhize told Sowetan.

“Our stadium is also open seven days a week for permanent staff for maintenance and coordination of content. The approach to hosting becomes a city initiative so that all sectors from security, health, communication and governance work cohesively and efficiently to deliver a safe sporting environment.”

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