South African football news Archives - MDNtv

Soweto Derby Tickets Go Fully Digital: Why Online-Only Sales Were Introduced

Sibongiseni Gumbi — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 07:25:55 +0000

Fans planning to attend future Soweto derby matches will need to adjust to a major change, as tickets are now available exclusively online.

Tickets Sell Out Within 24 Hours

Supporters were left disappointed after tickets for the April 26 clash between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs sold out within just 24 hours.

The frustration was compounded by the absence of physical ticket sales, leaving many unable to secure entry.

Why the Online-Only Ticket System Was Introduced

According to Stadium Management South Africa CEO Bertie Grobbelaar, the shift to digital ticketing was a deliberate move aimed at improving safety and eliminating fraud.

“All the tickets were sold online. There were no physical tickets,” he said.
“This was a decision of the clubs after our advice.”

Fake Tickets a Major Problem

Grobbelaar highlighted counterfeit tickets as a key issue in previous matches.

“Physical tickets are the root cause of fraud,” he explained.
“If ticket paper is stolen, it’s easy to print fake tickets.”

Overcrowding at FNB Stadium Raises Alarm

Concerns over overcrowding also played a significant role in the decision. Past Soweto derbies saw dangerously high attendance numbers at FNB Stadium.

One derby recorded 116,000 attendees
Another saw 101,000 fans inside the stadium

These figures exceeded safe capacity limits, raising serious safety concerns.

How the New Ticket System Works

The new system uses the My Tickets app, allowing fans to purchase and store tickets digitally.

This approach is designed to:

Prevent ticket duplication and fraud
Control stadium capacity
Improve crowd management and safety

What It Means for Soweto Derby Fans

The Soweto derby remains one of the biggest fixtures in South African football, drawing massive interest every season.

With the shift to a fully digital system, fans will need to adapt quickly to secure their place at future matches — or risk missing out entirely.

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Albert Mahlangu Criticizes Abdeslam Ouaddou Decision That Could Cost Orlando Pirates PSL Title

Sibongiseni Gumbi — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 10:59:07 +0000

Orlando Pirates legend Albert Mahlangu has criticized head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou over a key decision he believes could derail the club’s Betway Premiership title ambitions.

Pirates in Tight Title Race

Orlando Pirates are currently locked in a fierce title race with defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns.

The Buccaneers sit at the top of the table with 51 points from 22 matches, holding a narrow one-point advantage over Sundowns, who have played one game fewer.

Despite their strong position, concerns remain over the team’s attacking efficiency.

Struggles in Front of Goal

Pirates have consistently created scoring opportunities but have struggled with conversion in recent matches.

Mahlangu believes this inefficiency could ultimately cost them the league title if not addressed.

Mahlangu Questions Mabasa Loan Decision

“A Costly Mistake”

The former striker has pointed to the decision to loan out Tshegofatso Mabasa to Stellenbosch FC in January as a major error.

Speaking on the Soccerbeat Podcast, Mahlangu said:

“For me, I think the coach made a mistake when he released Mabasa.
If we had a striker like Mabasa, we would have been good upfront.”

He added that Mabasa’s finishing ability could have made a significant difference:

“If you look at the chances we have created and failed to use, Mabasa would have scored them.”

Current Strikers Under Pressure

Since Mabasa’s departure, Ouaddou has relied on Yanela Mbuthuma and Evidence Makgopa.

The duo has managed a combined 13 goals, but both players have faced criticism from supporters for missed opportunities.

Mahlangu acknowledged their contributions but emphasized differences in playing style:

“I’m not saying Mbuthuma and Makgopa are bad, but every player has their own style.
Mabasa would have buried most of those chances, and we would be far by now.”

Mabasa’s Form at Stellenbosch FC

Mahlangu also pointed to Mabasa’s recent performances at Stellenbosch FC as evidence of what Pirates are missing.

“He recently scored a brace where he is, and that tells you he could have helped us a lot.”

Title Race Could Go Down to the Wire

With the Betway Premiership season entering a निर्णng phase, Orlando Pirates’ ability to convert chances may prove decisive in their quest to secure the league title ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns.

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OUADDOU PRAISES TRUE PIRATES FANS AND SLAMS BOOING SUPPORTERS

Philani Mzila — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 08:07:45 +0000

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has praised the club’s loyal supporters while criticising those who boo the team during difficult moments.

The Buccaneers delivered a dominant performance on Sunday, thrashing TS Galaxy 6 0 at Mbombela Stadium in a Betway Premiership clash.

Speaking after the match, Ouaddou credited the strong support from fans for the team’s impressive display.

Orlando Pirates have experienced a mixed relationship with their home supporters at Orlando Stadium in recent weeks, with some fans booing the team when results do not go their way.

That reaction has not sat well with the Moroccan coach.

After being held to a 1 1 draw in their previous match, Pirates responded emphatically against Galaxy.

“It is more than a reaction. It is a good answer for the people who are doubting the commitment of these boys,” said Ouaddou.

“I always say that in our team there is no one who enters the pitch willing to lose or to draw.”

Ouaddou emphasised the importance of fan support, especially during challenging moments.

“Some people need to understand that these players are sweating blood for this Pirates shirt,” he said.

“We scored six goals today because we were helped by the fantastic support from the true fans.”

He highlighted the difference in atmosphere when the team plays away from home.

“Every time we come to this city, we have fantastic support. Every time we go to Durban, we have fantastic support and the players feel that.”

“Unfortunately at Orlando, when you miss a chance or draw, people start to boo the boys. Those are not the true supporters.”

“You saw here how when people support the team, the players respond.”

Ouaddou congratulated his players and sent a strong message about their title ambitions.

“Congratulations to the boys today. We have sent a strong message that we are not done, and we will fight until the last second.”

The victory sees Orlando Pirates return to the top of the league standings, sitting one point ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns, who still have a game in hand.

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Viral Photo Sparks Massive Firestorm For Chiefs’ Shabalala

Hlakaniphile Magadlela — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 19:17:14 +0000

Kaizer Chiefs’ rising star Mduduzi Shabalala is at the centre of a social media firestorm.

This follows a trending photograph that has raised serious questions about his professional conduct.

The image, which has circulated rapidly across Facebook, depicts the 22-year-old in a social setting.

However, the focus of the controversy is what appears to be cans of ‘dash’ — mixers commonly used with hard spirits — tucked near his legs.

The optics have left fans polarized, with many expressing fear that the young attacker may be falling victim to the “drinking demon” that has derailed several promising careers at Naturena.

Disciplinary Rumors Refueled

The timing of the leak has cast a shadow over the recent official statements from the club.

Both Mduduzi Shabalala and Mfundo Vilakazi were notable absentees from the high-profile clashes against Orlando Pirates and Richards Bay.

The club’s sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jnr and coach Cedric Kaze previously dismissed rumors of a suspension.

They insisted that Shabalala’s exclusion was purely tactical while Vilakazi’s was due to injury.

This viral photo has however reignited claims that there may be deeper disciplinary issues behind the scenes.

This incident follows a public warning from club legend Itumeleng Khune, who recently criticized the current generation for behaving more like “influencers” than footballers.

For Mduduzi Shabalala, who is considered a cornerstone of the club’s future, the pressure to maintain a professional image is at an all-time high.

While the contents of the social setting remain speculative, the damage to Shabalala’s reputation among the fans is real.

With a massive fixture against Durban City on the horizon, the youngster will need more than just “tactical” readiness to win back the trust of the Amakhosi fans.

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The ‘Master Chef’ Is Officially Back In The Kitchen For Orlando Pirates

Philani Mzila — Sun, 08 Mar 2026 21:22:47 +0000

Sipho Mbule has returned to full training with Orlando Pirates after weeks on the sidelines, boosting hopes for a strong finish to the season and a possible Bafana Bafana recall.

A video showing Sipho Mbule back at training with Orlando Pirates has got supporters excited.

Latest updates confirm that Mbule has returned to full training with Orlando Pirates this weekend.

After a frustrating period on the sidelines following the Africa Cup of Nations, the 27 year old playmaker is finally stepping up the final stages of his recovery.

The Road to Recovery

Mbule’s absence since the league resumed in late January had sparked widespread speculation among fans.

However, his manager Mike Makaab confirmed earlier this week that the situation was due to what he described as a ‘niggling injury’ that required a specialised rehabilitation programme.

It has since emerged that Mbule has been working closely with a dedicated fitness trainer to regain match sharpness.

Before his return to full training, Mbule had only made two substitute appearances in the second half of the season. His absence meant he missed several crucial matches, including the Soweto Derby and Orlando Pirates’ Nedbank Cup exit.

Makaab also dismissed rumours of disciplinary issues, insisting the focus was purely on medical clearance and recovery.

High Stakes Ahead

The timing of Mbule’s return could not be more important.

Firstly, it may serve as a crucial audition for Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, who is expected to name his squad for upcoming international friendlies against Panama on 27 and 31 March.

With the FIFA World Cup approaching, Mbule will need valuable game time to strengthen his chances of making the squad.

Secondly, Orlando Pirates face an important contractual decision. The club has until 31 May 2026 to exercise a two year option on his contract.

His performances in the final matches of the season are likely to determine whether the club commits to him long term.

Orlando Pirates have managed to remain competitive without him, but a fully fit Sipho Mbule brings a level of creativity and attacking intelligence that few players in the Betway Premiership can match.

If he proves his fitness in the coming weeks, Mbule could also emerge as a strong candidate to eventually succeed Themba Zwane in the national team setup.

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🚨 KAIZER CHIEFS FANS PROTEST OUTSIDE NATURENA VILLAGE AFTER 4 LOSSES IN A ROW! 😡⚽

MDNtv — Sat, 07 Mar 2026 13:48:17 +0000

Tensions are rising among Kaizer Chiefs supporters as angry fans gather outside Naturena Village to protest the club’s recent poor performance.

Supporters have mobilised outside the club headquarters in Johannesburg, demanding urgent changes from management after the team suffered four consecutive losses. Fans were seen singing and chanting while questioning the direction of the club.

Despite being described as an unlawful gathering, the protest has remained peaceful, with police present on site monitoring the situation.

The demonstration comes shortly after Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr. appealed for patience from supporters during interviews on Kaizer Chiefs Radio and with Robert Marawa on Marawa Sports Worldwide.

Fans are asking tough questions:
• Why has the team lost four games in a row?
• What changes will management make?
• Can Kaizer Chiefs recover this season?

This protest highlights the growing frustration among supporters who want to see their beloved club return to winning ways.

Share your thoughts in the comments:
Do you think changes are needed at Kaizer Chiefs?

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UDM Files Human Rights Complaint Against Coach Hugo Broos Over Alleged Racist and Sexist Remarks

Philani Mzila — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 05:15:25 +0000

UDM have lodged a formal complaint with the Human Rights Commission against Coach Hugo Broos for his racist and sexist remarks directed at Mbokazi and his agent, Ms Basia Michaels.

https://mdntvlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/VID-20251211-WA0013.mp4

UDM alleges that Brooks made racism and white supremacist attitudes towards Mbokazi and Basie.

They have also written to SAFA to express their deep concern and disgust at his comments.

https://mdntvlive.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/VID-20251211-WA0012.mp4

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