By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Credit Fullview for use of image.
Mbombela Stadium in Mpumalanga has been announced as the venue for the 2023/24 Nedbank Cup final, scheduled to take place on Saturday, 01 June 2024.
Mamelodi Sundowns, Stellenbosch, Orlando Pirates, and Chippa United secured their spots in the semi-finals by defeating AmaTuks, SuperSport United, AmaZulu, and TS Galaxy, respectively.
Following Sunday’s match between Galaxy and Chippa, the draw was officially announced as the Chilli Boys became the fourth team to progress to the semi-final round.
Chippa will host defending champions Pirates, while Stellenbosch will welcome Sundowns as they vie for a spot in the season-ending final.
This marks the second time the iconic 2010 FIFA World Cup venue will host the Nedbank Cup final, following the memorable 2011 final when Orlando Pirates secured a 3-1 victory over Black Leopards at the same venue.
Premier Soccer League (PSL) Acting CEO, Mato Madlala, highlighted the importance of spreading the football experience to neighboring countries through the selection of Mpumalanga as the host venue, in collaboration with Nedbank.
“We are thrilled to bring the Nedbank Cup final back to Mbombela Stadium, a venue rich in football history, having hosted memorable matches in the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations. This is a pivotal occasion for both the PSL and our partners, Nedbank, as it highlights our joint dedication to expanding football’s reach and impact throughout South Africa. Moreover, hosting the final in Mbombela will also cater to football enthusiasts from neighboring countries like Mozambique and Eswatini, thereby boosting tourism in the region. We eagerly anticipate an electrifying final that will captivate live audiences, as well as those who will tune in on television and radio,” said Madlala.
Reflecting on the journey thus far, Khensani Nobanda, Nedbank’s Group Executive for Marketing and Corporate Affairs, reminds fans that this year’s Nedbank Cup goes beyond the on-the-field action; it’s about empowerment, emotions, and the connections that football creates. “We continue our commitment to the fans and in the spirit of Ke Yona, Ya Rona, we are bringing fans closer to the tournament by continuously taking the final showpiece around the country to showcase South Africa’s vast tourism activities, with 12 different venues used across South Africa since 2008”.
As the tournament progresses, the Premier Soccer League (PSL) and Nedbank remain dedicated to providing fans with unforgettable experiences and creating lasting memories.
“As the Nedbank Cup remains a hallmark event in South African football, the tournament’s enduring spirit of David-versus-Goliath encounters, combined with innovative fan integration mechanic allowing fans to win their share of R5 million, has brought to life a level of football pride and comradery for both players and supporters,” adds Nobanda.
Further details regarding the semi-final fixtures, including dates, venues, and times, will be communicated in due course.