LIMPOPO – The Greater Giyani Municipality is embarking on a major renovation project to upgrade the Giyani Stadium pitch to meet Premier Soccer League (PSL) standards, a move that could see top-tier football return to the town.

Municipal manager Vusi Duncan Khoza revealed the plan during a recent event at the stadium, confirming that all current stadium bookings would be suspended to pave the way for the pitch upgrade.

“As you know, we recently had a meeting with PSL officials regarding the upgrading of our pitch. They were quite clear on what needs to be done for the stadium to host PSL matches again,” said Khoza.

He highlighted that, while the Giyani Stadium has a legacy of hosting PSL fixtures, its current condition falls short of league requirements. “The pitch needs to be upgraded to meet PSL standards. Today marks our last event here before we begin renovations,” he stated.

According to Khoza, the municipality has taken proactive steps to ensure the success of the project. Officials visited the new Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane to benchmark against a facility that successfully meets PSL criteria.

“Through that benchmarking exercise, we got valuable guidance. We’ve already gone through a procurement process focused on the specifications required to meet PSL standards,” he explained.

The upgrade is scheduled to begin in the coming week, with hopes that the pitch will be ready by the start of the upcoming PSL season. Meanwhile, PSL representatives are expected to return for an inspection to verify compliance.

Khoza also noted that much of the infrastructure within the stadium, such as change rooms and ablution facilities, has already been improved in previous phases. The pitch upgrade marks the beginning of phase one of the current project, while phase two will focus on the running track and aesthetic improvements like painting the grandstand.

“Residents have raised concerns about the lack of a proper running track, and we’ve listened. And that will be part of the next phase,” he added.

When asked about the implications for the upcoming Mayor’s Cup tournament, Khoza confirmed that alternative venues would be considered.

“We’ll look at options such as the Homu Stadium or other outer pitches here. It will depend on what the community wants. Maybe by the final, the pitch could be partially ready, but that remains to be seen,” said Khoza.

He concluded by affirming the municipality’s commitment to responding to community calls for PSL action in Giyani.

“We have heard the cries of the people. There’s a hunger to see PSL matches played here again—and we’re doing something about it,” he said.