THOUSANDS of local and out-of-town soccer fans are left disappointed after an unprecedented ticket sales glitch occurred on Monday. The fans were hoping to attend the Nedbank Cup Final game between soccer giants Kaizer Chiefs FC and Orlando Pirates FC on Saturday, May 10, at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Social media platforms are abuzz, with fingers pointed at the ticket retail company whose sales process management is deemed “irresponsible”.
When ticket sales for the 46 000-seater stadium were opened, the demand for online and physical purchases were exceeded by about 10 000 as the tickets were sold out in less than an hour. Some buyers could purchase online, but they later received communication stating that the tickets were unavailable and they would be refunded. Reportedly, more than 80% of buyers were affected.

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Despite the uncertainty of safety on Saturday, Durban Metro spokesperson Colonel Boysie Zungu is assuring the soccer fans of a safe experience.
“Durban is proud to host the Nedbank Cup Final at Moses Mabhida Stadium this weekend. We assured the public that all systems are in place to ensure a safe and successful soccer spectacle. Thousands of fans are expected to descend on our beautiful city. To accommodate everyone, two Public Viewing Areas will be set up at Albert Park and Durban Beachfront. Durban Metro Police Service will be fully deployed to manage traffic, ensure safety, and support a festive yet secure environment,” Zungu said.

Provincial Commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal Police Lt Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi also emphasised that the weekend operation is on track, “We have a planning team that has put necessary plans in place to safeguard spectators, players and officials. No one must run the risk of coming to the stadium without a ticket regardless of one’s status. No one is permitted to bring firearms and other dangerous weapons into the stadium. A caution is given to those who call themselves VIPs and drive around with security guards that in KwaZulu-Natal they must obey the law because they might hear about the results of the match from behind bars.”

Also read: 4 new major tourist attractions at Moses Mabhida Stadium

In its statement, Open Tickets acknowledged the challenge experienced by fans during ticket sales.
“An unprecedented surge in demand caused system delays shortly after the sales opened. We understand the frustration, and we are addressing the matter. Refunds will be administered where possible.”

Managing Director of Stadium Management South Africa, Bertie Grobbelaar, who has been roped in as auditor, shared clarity on the ticketing sales crisis. “When tickets went on sale on Monday morning, technical issues left thousands of fans frustrated. Service provider Open Tickets has apologised for the glitch.”

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