While the rest of South Africa stops once more for the Soweto Derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, Soweto and surrounding areas are expected to be a hive of activity this weekend. The two football titans cross paths once more on Saturday, with the much-awaited Betway Premiership match-up taking place at FNB Stadium.
Undoubtedly the biggest fixture in the country’s sports calendar, the anticipation for the iconic spectacle has once again been through the roof. This has been reflected through the speed at which the match tickets have sold out.
With kick-off at 15:30, gates open at 11:30 and fans are encouraged to arrive as early as possible to avoid delays. As is always the case, no tickets will be sold at the stadium and only valid tickets will be accepted.
In preparation for the fixture which will draw tens of thousands to the iconic venue, there are measures that have been put in place to ensure a seamless matchday experience for football lovers.
Road Closures
Several roads in and around the stadium precinct will be cordoned off on match day. Traffic will be affected in the following locations;
- Cnr Nasrec Road and Shaft 17
- Cnr Nasrec Road and Randshow Road
- Cnr Stadium and Nasrec Road
- Cnr Stadium Road and Soccer City Road
- Cnr League Road and Booysens Reserve Road
- Soweto Highway off ramp onto League Road
- Soweto Highway North to South and South to North
Transport Options
There are a number of transport options available for those attending the Derby, including the Park and Ride system available at five departure points around Johannesburg. This can be accessed at the following locations;
- Montecasino
- Sandton City
- Clearwater Mall
- Mall of Africa
- Gold Reef City
To ensure early arrival at the stadium, departure time at each pick-up location is between 12:00 and 13:00 while the final bus after the match will depart at 18:00. Park and Ride tickets are available for purchase at www.ticketpro.co.za
Other transport options include Rea Vaya and Gautrain bus services, as well as taxis that will be operating from different locations.
For those that will be using private transport, free parking will be available in and around FNB Stadium with additional signage placed to guide patrons to the parking areas. Trained security personnel will be deployed at the various parking areas. Illegally parked vehicles will be towed.
Matchday Activities
While the 90-minutes spectacle between the two Soweto Giants will be the main attraction, the entertainment starts well before kick-off. Orlando Pirates, along with the club’s partners and venue sponsors, will host activations around the stadium. Official team merchandise will also be available for purchase with both teams setting up stalls.
Pre-match performances begin at 12:15 with DJ Stopper taking the stage, followed by Muzi and DBN Gogo. Robot Boi and DJ Sonic are also among the performers set to provide live entertainment throughout the day.
SOURCED FROM THE CLUB’S WEBSITE.
