RAND STADIUM TO HOST NEDBANK CUP FINAL

The newly upgraded and refurbished Rand Stadium in Johannesburg will host the 2^nd Nedbank Cup Final on the 23^rd of May, 2009.

This was confirmed by the Premier Soccer League today.

The final will be contested by Moroka Swallows and Pretoria University.

“It’s indeed an honour for us to play the match at Rand Stadium and mark the Stadium’s opening with such a prestigious match,” said Ace Ncobo, PSL General Manager: Football.

“This particular venue has hosted many exciting matches over the years and it’s also one of Johannesburg’s oldest soccer venues, so the Nedbank Cup Final will inscribe its name into the history books yet again when the match kicks off on the 23^rd of May.”

The Rand Stadium will be one of the official training venues for the FIFA 2010 World Cup.

R76m has been spent on the upgrade of the Rand Stadium.

The Stadium will boast seating for 25 000 spectators and will also include world class VIP facilities, 8 commentary boxes, 2 press rooms and a fully equipped gymnasium.

“To stage the first competitive match at the Rand Stadium before the Confederations Cup is an honour for Nedbank and reaffirms that the Nedbank Cup as truly Ke Yona! Nedbank is delighted to offer all soccer fans an opportunity to experience the atmosphere of a World Cup training facility first hand,” says Andy Scott, Head of Nedbank Group Sponsorships.  

Ncobo also believes that the Rand Stadium will bring a welcome relief to the problem the League is currently experiencing with a shortage of facilities.

“It’s an open secret that the League has been battling with scheduling of matches due to many stadiums undergoing upgrades. It’s a relief to know that we can start playing matches at the Rand Stadium again where I must add that the pitch is looking in excellent condition as well,” Ncobo added.

Tickets for the Nedbank Cup Final go on sale from Monday, 11 May 2009 at all Computicket and Checkers and Shoprite outlets.