Premier Soccer League’s acting CEO, Mato Madlala, has revealed Mbombela Stadium as the battleground for the Nedbank Cup final, slated for June 1.
This decision echoes the stadium’s illustrious history, having previously hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.
Madlala emphasized the significance of extending football’s footprint to neighbouring nations by selecting Mpumalanga as the hosting locale. “We are thrilled to bring the Nedbank Cup final back to Mbombela Stadium, a venue rich in football history,” she remarked.
“This pivotal occasion underscores our joint commitment with Nedbank to broaden football’s influence throughout South Africa.”
The decision to host the final in Mbombela not only celebrates the sport but also promotes tourism in the region, catering to football enthusiasts from neighbouring countries like Mozambique and Eswatini.
Nedbank’s group executive for marketing and corporate affairs, Khensani Nobanda, echoed this sentiment, stating, “In the spirit of Ke Yona, Ya Rona, we are bringing fans closer to the tournament by continuously taking the final show-piece around the country.”
The Nedbank Cup, a cornerstone event in South African football, is renowned for its David-versus-Goliath encounters and innovative fan engagement initiatives.
With a tradition of showcasing South Africa’s diverse tourism offerings, the tournament has seen 12 different venues utilized across the country since 2008.
As anticipation builds for the final, football enthusiasts nationwide eagerly await an electrifying spectacle that promises to captivate audiences both in the stadium and beyond, via television and radio broadcasts.