Premier Soccer League chairman Irvin Khoza has expressed concerns over the persistent crowd control issues at the Soweto derby, which was held at FNB Stadium on Saturday. The stadium was overcrowded, with reports of security staff taking bribes from supporters without tickets to enter the stadium. This led to a group of fans pushing through the gates, creating security risks and safety concerns. Khoza attributed the chaos to stakeholders failing to fulfil their responsibilities.
The Soweto derby has long been plagued by crowd control problems, despite efforts to address the issue. Stadium Management SA CEO Bertie Grobbelaar had outlined plans to curb overcrowding prior to the previous derby, but issues persisted on Saturday. Some supporters who arrived just minutes before kickoff were locked out due to the stadium being full. It was reported that 6,000 spectators were locked out of FNB Stadium on Saturday, including some with suite tickets.
A video circulated on social media showed angry fans vandalising the barriers and damaging steel gates after being refused entry to the venue. Grobbelaar could not be reached for comment on the incident. The chaos at the stadium has raised questions about the suitability of FNB Stadium as a host venue for high-profile matches. Khoza has hinted that the PSL may consider moving the derby to Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, which has a reputation for hosting big matches without incident.
Moses Mabhida Stadium manager Zakhi Mkhize says the venue is ready to host big matches, including the Soweto derby. Mkhize told Sowetan that the stadium is open seven days a week for permanent staff for maintenance and coordination of content. He emphasized that hosting a big match like the derby requires a cohesive effort from all sectors, including security, health, communication, and governance.
Khoza pointed out that Moses Mabhida Stadium had successfully hosted a Nedbank Cup final between Pirates and Chiefs without any major incidents. He expressed frustration that similar problems persist at FNB Stadium, saying that certain stakeholders are not playing their part. Khoza has asked for a briefing on Thursday to determine if stakeholders will improve their performance, warning that he will name and shame those who fail to meet their responsibilities.
The potential move of the Soweto derby to Moses Mabhida Stadium would be a significant change for the PSL. Khoza emphasized that the decision would depend on the performance of stakeholders involved in hosting matches at FNB Stadium. If the issues persist, he suggested that the PSL may have to consider alternative venues like Moses Mabhida Stadium, which has a track record of hosting big matches professionally.
The incident at FNB Stadium has raised concerns about the safety and security of fans attending high-profile matches. The PSL and stadium management must work together to address the crowd control issues and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for spectators. The possibility of moving the Soweto derby to Moses Mabhida Stadium will be closely watched by fans and stakeholders alike.
Key points
- Premier Soccer League chairman Irvin Khoza hints at moving the Soweto derby from FNB Stadium to Moses Mabhida Stadium due to crowd control issues.
- Moses Mabhida Stadium manager Zakhi Mkhize says the venue is ready to host big matches, including the Soweto derby.
- The potential move of the Soweto derby to Moses Mabhida Stadium would depend on the performance of stakeholders involved in hosting matches at FNB Stadium.
