The highly anticipated Soweto derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs is set to take place at the FNB Stadium on Saturday, with both teams riding high on the back of convincing victories in the Carling Knockout competition. The match has generated immense interest, with tickets selling out within hours of going on sale. This is not surprising, given the massive following of the two teams and the fact that the stadium has a capacity of 94,000.
The FNB Stadium has previously experienced overcrowding during high-profile matches, including the Soweto derby in February, when 15,000 more people gained entry than the allocated capacity. This has raised concerns over safety protocols and crowd control. Despite efforts by organisers to alleviate congestion through park-and-ride services, many fans insist on driving to the venue, causing gridlocked traffic and chaos in the surrounding areas.
The disregard for safety protocols has been attributed to a combination of factors, including fans' refusal to use allocated parking and the presence of individuals without tickets or with counterfeit tickets. This has resulted in disorderly conduct, including littering, public urination, and attempts to force entry into the stadium. The situation has been exacerbated by road closures around the vicinity, which have led to frustration among commuters.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has threatened Stadium Management South Africa (SMSA), the company that operates the stadium, with harsh action if safety protocols are not improved. SMSA has assured that security will be beefed up for Saturday's match. However, previous experiences have shown that despite best preparations, plans can be disrupted by non-adherence to rules by some supporters.
The incident has sparked calls for football fans to adopt a more disciplined approach, similar to that of rugby fans. When South Africa hosted a rugby match against New Zealand at the FNB Stadium recently, the event was marked by orderly conduct and respect for safety protocols. In contrast, the Soweto derby has been marred by chaos and disorder.
The Soweto derby has been described as the biggest sporting spectacle in Southern Africa, attracting millions of viewers. However, the focus on the event has also highlighted the need for fans to take responsibility for their own safety and to respect the rules and regulations put in place by organisers. The mantra of "no valid, scannable ticket, no entry" is being emphasised, with fans urged to prioritize their safety and well-being.
As the football faithful prepare for the Soweto derby, authorities are urging fans to exercise caution and to adopt a more responsible approach. With the start time of the match looming, fans are being reminded of the importance of arriving early and following safety protocols to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all. The event promises to be an exciting one, but safety and discipline must be the top priorities.
Key points
- The Soweto derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs has sold out, with concerns raised over safety and crowd control at the FNB Stadium.
