The green carpet will be laid on all roads leading to the Johannesburg Stadium on Saturday May 24 for the David versus Goliath Nedbank Cup soccer final.
The Cup committee confirmed on Tuesday the final of the inaugural Nedbank Cup between Mpumalanga Black Aces and Mamelodi Sundowns will be played at the Johannesburg Stadium.
Kick-off is scheduled for 3pm.
It’s been a few years since the City of Gold has hosted a major cup final.
”We took many factors into consideration,” said Premier Soccer League (PSL) CEO, Kjetil Siem.
”We consulted all our stakeholders before reaching the decision and I’m pleased we are taking this mouth-watering clash to the Johannesburg Stadium,” added Siem.
With the stadium capacity at almost 40 000, the challenge facing the PSL is to ensure fans turn up for the game, a point Siem is hoping to drive through extensively in the coming weeks.
”We will try to put the necessary marketing initiatives and strategies in place to ensure the stadium is filled.”
”Nedbank will also throw its weight behind the various marketing initiatives to ensure fans come in their droves to the stadium,” was the message from Stuart Le Pere, Nedbank’s soccer sponsorship manager.
Mpumalanga Black Aces were given the honour of being the home team, by virtue of winning a toss of the coin.
Mpumalanga Black Aces CEO Peter Kotroulis was happy with the decision to take the game to Johannesburg Stadium.
”It’s a fair venue for both clubs, especially with both team’s supporters not having to travel far distances to watch the match. It’s also safe for our supporters to come here,” commented Kotroulis.
As for Mamelodi Sundowns, they will be looking for their second cup trophy this season after lifting the SAA Supa 8 title.
The Brazilians are on a mission to fill up the grandstands at the Johannesburg Stadium.
”We will make sure the whole of Pretoria will be in Johannesburg on May 24,” said Sundowns communications manager Mahlatse Mpahlele.
”We will go on a huge recruitment drive to ensure our fans witness a memorable final.”
Ticket prices have been set at R20 for adults and R10 for children.
Tickets go on sale from Monday May 12 at all Computicket outlets. — Sapa