MBABANE- The decision to move the season’s final instalment of the Soweto Derby to Sunday, April 26 has created a logistical headache for the dedicated Eswatini contingent.
The derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs is a cultural phenomenon that transcends the pitch, representing a century of rivalry. Originally scheduled for Saturday, April 25, the change was made due to logistical clashes with the Ultra Music Festival at the nearby Nasrec Expo Centre, making it a rare Sunday showdown.
For emaSwati fans, the shift from the traditional Saturday slot is more than a minor inconvenience; it is a deal-breaker. With Monday remaining a standard working day in Eswatini, the prospect of a late-night border crossing followed by an immediate return to the office has dampened the usual ‘Derby Fever’.
Phephile Dlamini, spokesperson for the Eswatini Kaizer Chiefs Supporters Branch, confirmed a sharp decline in numbers.
“Since Monday is a working day here in Eswatini, only 22 of our members are leaving for Soweto. In the last derby, we had up to 44,” Dlamini noted.
The group plans to depart this Friday for a two-night stay, but unlike previous excursions where fans could linger after a Saturday victory, these supporters will head back immediately following the final whistle to make it home for Monday morning.
The Orlando Pirates Football Club Eswatini Supporters Group has faced similar hurdles. While a full-scale trip was initially on the cards, many ‘Bucs’ fans have opted to stay home. Instead of the trek to Johannesburg, supporters are set to congregate at local ‘fan parks’ to witness the action on the big screen.
Travel packages for the derby typically start at a minimum of E1 000, covering accommodation and match tickets. For many, the Sunday timing makes that investment less appealing compared to the safety and convenience of watching from Mbabane or Manzini.
This particular clash carries immense weight for both Soweto giants. Orlando Pirates are currently at the summit, with Mamelodi Sundowns breathing down their necks in a high-stakes title race. While Pirates are two points ahead, Sundowns have a couple of games in hands. For the Buccaneers, every point is vital to ending the ‘Brazilians’ long-standing dominance.
Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs have undergone a spectacular mid-season revival. Riding a wave of five consecutive victories before the stalemate at Polokwane this past weekend, Amakhosi are surging toward a Confederation of African Football (CAF) qualification spot. For the Naturena-based side, a victory is not just about pride; it is about cementing their return to continental football and validating the progress made under their coaching staff.
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