TTM Consider Hosting Pirates At Moses Mabhida Stadium In Nedbank Cup
Sportswire has been informed that Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila (TTM) are considering hosting Orlando Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium in the Nedbank Cup round of 32.
It is understood that TTM have submitted Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban as their preferred venue for the first-round fixture, with the PSL expected to grant approval.
The PSL, which is coordinating the participation of all 32 clubs in this year’s competition, is currently working with home teams to finalise preferred venues. The official list of venues is expected to be announced soon.
TTM’s decision to opt for Moses Mabhida Stadium is due to the club not having a venue in Venda that meets PSL standards. The Limpopo-based side are currently competing in the SAFA Amateur ranks after their recent relegation, which was accompanied by controversy involving chairman Lawrence Mulaudzi.
Should the move be confirmed, it will be welcome news for Orlando Pirates, who have enjoyed success at the iconic 2010 FIFA World Cup venue. The Buccaneers recently defeated Richards Bay 1-0 in the Carling Knockout semi-final on 8 November, with Tshepang Moremi scoring the decisive goal in the 42nd minute.
Pirates went on to beat Marumo Gallants 1-0 in the final at Peter Mokaba Stadium last month to complete a domestic cup double this season.
Interestingly, Gallants acquired TTM’s top-flight status midway through the 2020/21 season after Mulaudzi sold the status to Abram Sello. Under Sello, the club — still competing as TTM before changing its name at the end of that season — went on to win the Nedbank Cup, defeating Chippa United in the final at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.
A potential match at Moses Mabhida Stadium would also benefit Pirates in terms of fan attendance, as the larger venue would allow greater supporter turnout. The Soweto giants have enjoyed notable success at the stadium, having lifted the PSL title in the 2011/12 season, the Nedbank Cup in 2013/14, the Carling Knockout in 2011/12, and three MTN8 titles in the past five years, and the Carling Cup last month.
Additionally, Pirates has won all three matches they have played at the Moses Mabhida Stadium this season.
However, Pirates do not have fond recent memories in the Nedbank Cup, having lost to Kaizer Chiefs in last season’s final while chasing a historic third consecutive title.
