KAIZER Chiefs will be expecting their side restore some pride with a win in the second Soweto Derby of the 2025/2026 season on Sunday.
Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers
The Premier Soccer League and its stakeholders were lucky to avoid disaster in the previous Soweto derby; as a result, the South African Police Service (SAPS) will be taking no chances when it comes to safety and security measures ahead of the much-anticipated fixture taking place at FNB Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
The Soweto giants, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, will meet in the last derby of the 2025/26 season, with kick-off set for 3pm.
Major General Frank Kekana of the Gauteng SAPS did not beat around the bush regarding how they will prevent overcrowding.
“In the last derby, there were shortcomings as there ended up being people in the stadium who were not supposed to be there — people who did not have valid tickets,” said Major General Kekana.
“This time we’re taking stricter measures; from 1.5km away, we will be checking and validating tickets before allowing anyone to even enter the stadium precinct.
“Substance abuse will not be allowed, and the selling of fake tickets will not be tolerated, nor will fighting. We expect a cordial approach from all patrons. Only sport-loving fans are welcome.”
Major General Kekana’s sentiments were echoed by Superintendent Xolani Fihla of the Johannesburg Metro Police Department.
“In the Nasrec precinct, only vehicles with parking tickets and Rea Vaya buses will be allowed. We are encouraging supporters to use all the public transport arranged, such as the Park and Ride, Rea Vaya, and the designated minibuses, instead of navigating individually,” said Fihla.
Pirates, as hosts, have also played their part by ensuring that gates open as early as 10 am on Sunday, which should go a long way towards assisting with orderly entry, especially as the event is competing with the Ultra Music Festival in the Nasrec precinct.
The music festival is the reason why the Soweto derby was moved to a Sunday, which is rare. Matters were also assisted by the fact that Monday, April 27 is a public holiday — Freedom Day.
“Gates will open at 10 am, which is a first for a Soweto derby. So, we urge people to come early, and there will be incentives from all our partners,” said Thandi Merafe, the Pirates media officer.
“There will be entertainment galore; if you’ve heard of the Super Bowl, well, we as Orlando Pirates have prepared a ‘Pre-Bowl’ for the football lovers on Sunday morning. We have a stunning line-up of local favourite artists,” she added, naming several popular names in the local music scene.
“We understand there is a music festival going on in the precinct over the weekend, so this will help fans manage their logistics.”
It is not just entertainment; you can bet there will be fashion galore as well. With this being an A-grade Betway Premiership fixture, the best-dressed supporter will walk away R50,000 richer.