In a shocking turn of events, the highly anticipated Nedbank Cup Quarterfinal match between Mamelodi Sundowns and Sekhukhune United, scheduled for Saturday, 8 March, at Lucas Moripe Stadium, has been postponed due to an unexpected stadium booking conflict.
Double Booking Chaos at Lucas Moripe Stadium
The Premier Soccer League (PSL) confirmed that the stadium, which had been secured under a formal agreement for the Nedbank Cup match, was also booked for an under-17 FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualifier, set to take place at 15:00 on the same day.
According to a PSL media statement, league officials became aware of the situation only on March 7, 2025, following social media reports that the stadium had accepted another booking. This prompted the PSL to urgently demand confirmation that the stadium agreement would be honored—a request that, as of now, remains unanswered.
PSL Forced to Cancel the Fixture
Without a resolution and considering the safety and logistical implications, the PSL had no choice but to cancel the match and postpone it to a later date.
The league cited major concerns about the safety and security of fans, teams, match officials, and staff, stating that no prior planning had been done to accommodate two major fixtures on the same day. Event security arrangements, engagements with SAPS, and stadium safety protocols had been structured around the Nedbank Cup fixture, making any last-minute adjustments impossible.
Mamelodi Sundowns Fans Left Disappointed
This postponement is a huge blow to football supporters, especially Mamelodi Sundowns fans, who were eagerly anticipating their team’s battle against Sekhukhune United.
Sundowns, one of South Africa’s most successful football clubs, were expected to continue their dominant form in the competition, but now they must wait for a new date for their quarterfinal clash.
The PSL has apologized to all stakeholders, emphasizing that the decision was necessary to ensure compliance with Nedbank Cup regulations and the League Compliance Manual.
Ticket Holders Advised to Keep Their Tickets
Supporters who had purchased tickets for the match are urged to keep them safe, as they will remain valid for the rescheduled fixture, which will be announced soon.
What Happens Next?
The PSL has vowed to investigate the matter fully to determine how such a scheduling mishap occurred. The league has also assured the public that future updates regarding the new fixture date will be communicated in due course.
This incident raises serious questions about stadium management and event coordination, and football fans will be eager to see how the PSL and stadium authorities respond to ensure such a blunder does not happen again.
Stay tuned for further updates.
Check also: Nedbank Cup Quarter-Final Preview: SuperSport United vs. Orlando Pirates
