MTN8 semifinal between Chiefs and Pirates moves to new date MyZA

Pirates take cup derby to Orlando. Photo: Sowetan Live

The MTN8 semifinal between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, scheduled for next Wednesday, has been moved to Saturday, August 24, at FNB Stadium.

This has been done to observe the recommendations of the Ngoepe Commission of Inquiry that no official Soweto derby match be played midweek.

The other semifinal, featuring Platinum Stars and BidVest Wits, will now be played at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium on August 25.

PSL general communications and stakeholder relations manager Connie Motshumi said the changes were also done to give clubs time to rest.

“Yes, I can confirm the Ngoepe Commission of Inquiry’s recommendations were also taken into consideration in relation to the Soweto derby,” said Motshumi.

“The other thing is that some of the clubs were going to play two games within three days.

“We also have Pirates playing in the African Champions League, which has also forced us to reschedule some of our Absa Premiership fixtures.”

Motshumi said the Soweto derby will start at 3pm. The meeting also deliberated on the commission’s recommendations to avoid a repeat of the April 11, 2001, Ellis Park tragedy where more than 43 people died.

The second-leg match between Pirates and Chiefs will take place at Orlando Stadium on September 24 at 3pm.

Asked why the second leg of the derby was taking place midweek, Motshumi said: “September 24 is a public holiday, many people will be at home on that day.” – Soweton Live

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