Arthur Zwane has discussed the possibility of the Soweto Derby in the Nedbank Cup semi-final not being hosted at FNB Stadium and taking place outside of Gauteng.
The Premier Soccer League are yet to announce the venues and exact kick-off times for the two semi-finals of the Nedbank Cup, with the games scheduled for the weekend of the 6 and 7 May
There seems to be a possibility that the Soweto Derby between Chiefs and rivals Orlando Pirates could take place away from FNB Stadium, because the ‘Monster Jam’ event takes place a week earlier at the venue and it is questionable whether a week’s time is enough to recover from the event.
Chiefs coach Zwane has discussed the issue of the derby perhaps being taken to another province but insisted FNB is the best solution for the large crowd the game will attract.
“Look, we can play anywhere,” he said.
“But unfortunately the capacity when you look at FNB will always be there, especially when you look at people coming from different provinces to watch this game.
“I don’t think other stadiums have got the capacity to carry the numbers.
“Obviously we don’t want to go back to the days where we had stampedes in the past. So I think FNB – I’m not saying we should go to FNB – but I think FNB will be suitable for such a big game.”
Meanwhile, Stadium Management SA (SMSA) managing director Bertie Grobbelaar told News24 that FNB Stadium “will be ready” for the Soweto Derby and the organisers of Monster Jam have been given a strict timeline to return the stadium to it’s original state after their event on 29 April.
He also added that the issue has been discussed with the club and the matter is now in the hands of the Premier Soccer League to make a decision on the venue for the semi-final.
