The highly anticipated Soweto derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs is set to take place on Saturday at the 94,000-seater FNB Stadium. Tickets for the match were snapped up within hours of going on sale, a fortnight ago. Both teams enter the match on a high, following respective 3-0 victories over Milford FC and TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout competition on Tuesday night. This has increased interest in the match, with supporters scrambling for non-existent tickets.
The FNB Stadium was overcrowded when the two teams last clashed in February, with 15,000 more people gaining entry than the venue's capacity. This has raised concerns about safety protocols and crowd control. Despite being aware of the potential risks, many fans seem to disregard safety measures, leading to chaos on the roads leading to the stadium and on the precinct. A combination of factors contributes to the mayhem, including patrons refusing to use park-and-ride services and fans loitering around the precinct without tickets.
The insistence of fans to drive as close to the venue as possible and the presence of counterfeit tickets also contribute to the congestion and chaos. Road closures around the vicinity result in gridlocked traffic, and the situation is further exacerbated by people relieving themselves in public and littering. Some fans, despite not having tickets, still attempt to force their way into the stadium, adding to the risk of a disaster.
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 mantra for the match should be common sense over everything, with fans being urged to prioritize their own safety. Being caught up in Soweto Derby fever must not force fans into temporary irresponsibility that borders on insanity. It is essential that fans take the issue of their own safety seriously and adhere to the rules.
The Soweto derby presents a stark contrast to the experience of spectators at rugby matches at the same FNB Stadium venue. When South Africa and New Zealand played a rugby match at FNB not too long ago, everything was orderly. In contrast, the last Soweto derby match had to be delayed by 30 minutes due to a large number of spectators still scrambling to get to the stadium.
Authorities are urging fans to be responsible and respect safety protocols to avoid a disaster. With the potential for a large and passionate crowd, it is crucial that fans prioritize their safety and the safety of others. The match is expected to attract millions of viewers, and it is essential that the event is remembered for the football and not for any unfortunate incidents.
Key points
- Fans are urged to prioritize safety and adhere to protocols to avoid a disaster at the Soweto derby.
- The FNB Stadium was overcrowded when the two teams last clashed in February, raising concerns about safety protocols and crowd control.
- Authorities are warning fans to be responsible and respect safety protocols to avoid a disaster at the match.
