The Premier Soccer League explains the reasons why it chose the Mbombela Stadium as the Nedbank Cup final costing venue. Mbombela will host the final of the Ke Yona competition as four PSL clubs are set to battle for a spot in the final next month.
Defending champions, Orlando Pirates, reigning DStv Premiership champions, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Carling Knockout Cup title holders, Stellenbosch as well as Chippa United are all through to the Last Four. According to Phakaaathi, PSL CEO Mato Madlala says they aim to take football to all the provinces, and choosing the Nelspruit-based 2010 FIFA World Cup venue was a no-brainer.
Why the PSL Chose Mbombela as the Nedbank Cup Final Venue
The CEO who also doubles up as Golden Arrows chairman, Madlala highlighted the importance of spreading the football experience to neighbouring countries through the selection of Mpumalanga as the host venue.
“We are thrilled to bring the Nedbank Cup final back to Mbombela Stadium, a venue rich in football history, having hosted memorable matches in the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations,” said Madlala to the football publication.
“This is a pivotal occasion for both the PSL and our partners, Nedbank, as it highlights our joint dedication to expanding football’s reach and impact throughout South Africa. Moreover, hosting the final in Mbombela will also cater to football enthusiasts from neighboring countries like Mozambique and eSwatini, thereby boosting tourism in the region. We eagerly anticipate an electrifying final that will captivate live audiences, as well as those who will tune in on television and radio.”
Nedbank Official on the PSL Choosing Mbombela for the Final
Just last season, the Buccaneers met Sekhukhune United in the final and emerged as champions – they will now look to retain their title. Coach Jose Riveiro’s men are set to face the in-form Chilli Boys possibly in Gqeberha at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. In the other clash, Masandawana will target a spot in the final but they face a team that ended their title ambitions in the previous term, Stellies away from Tshwane.
On behalf of the sponsors, Nedbank’s Group Executive for Marketing and Corporate Affairs Khensani Nobanda, said their ambition is to continue their commitment to the fans.
“And in the spirit of Ke Yona, Ya Rona, we are bringing fans closer to the tournament by continuously taking the final showpiece around the country to showcase South Africa’s vast tourism activities, with 12 different venues used across South Africa since 2008,” added Nobanda.
“As the Nedbank Cup remains a hallmark event in South African football, the tournament’s enduring spirit of David-versus-Goliath encounters, combined with innovative fan integration mechanic allowing fans to win their share of R5 million, has brought to life a level of football pride and comradery for both players and supporters.”
The iconic hosting venue used by TS Galaxy as its home base for domestic matches will be hosting the final for the second time after staging the 2011 edition when Pirates secured a 3-1 victory over the relegated Black Leopards.
Meanwhile, the semi-final matches are set to be played during the first weekend of May while the final is scheduled for the first of June 2024.
Related: Nedbank Cup History: Which Team Boasts The Most Title Wins