By Sihle Nzima
The eThekwini Municipality will implement additional safety and security measures ahead of the MTN 8 final match between Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch United tomorrow.
The safety measures were announced during a media briefing at the Coastlands Skye Hotel in Umhlanga yesterday. This is the 10th time, since 2010, that eThekwini has been selected as the host city for the MTN 8 final, which is expected to attract more than 60 000 fans to the city.
Metro Police spokesperson Colonel Boysie Zungu said while there will be no road closures ahead of the game, traffic officials will be deployed at intersections around the stadium.
“Extra safety and security measures are being taken by the city ahead of the MTN 8 clash. Working with the stadium management, we have secured additional parking bays and areas for fans,” he said.
Head of Stadia and Facilities Dr Vusi Mazibuko said the ticket sales confirmed fans and the tournament organisers’ confidence in the City’s ability to host top sporting tournaments.
“This is the second-fastest time tickets have sold for a game at the stadium, only behind the 2014 Kaizer Chiefs vs Orlando Pirates MTN 8 fixture. The city has demonstrated on various occasions that we are capable of hosting big tournaments. EThekwini boasts world-class facilities and remains ready to host mega events, (which) have a positive impact on the economy,” he added.
A local motorist, Lungelo Bele, expressed concerns about the traffic congestion expected on the match day, saying, “It’s going to be a nightmare trying to navigate through the city, especially with the influx of fans. I (use) my car (to go to) work. Although there will be no road closures, the traffic will slow everything down.”
A Pirates fan and sports bettor, Sipho Dlamini, shared his excitement, hoping his team’s victory will bring him luck in more ways than one.
“I’ve placed a big bet on the game. I’m confident that Pirates will win. (For me), it’s not just about the match, it’s about walking away with some extra cash in my pocket,” he said.
The Metro Police, the Moses Mabhida Stadium management, the South African Police Service, MTN and the Passenger Railway Agency of South Africa are working together to ensure the success of the final.
