Ticket chaos overshadows Soweto derby spectacle at FNB Stadium

What should have been a celebration of South African football’s biggest rivalry instead exposed serious operational shortcomings, as technical failures at FNB Stadium marred Saturday’s Soweto derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.

Thousands of supporters gained entry into the sold-out fixture without their tickets being scanned after Stadium Management SA’s newly introduced MyTicket system malfunctioned under pressure. The digital platform, operated internally by SMSA, has faced criticism since its rollout earlier this year, and the derby appeared to provide its sternest examination yet.

Early arrivals experienced manageable delays at access points, though scanning processes moved slower than expected. However, congestion escalated dramatically about an hour before kick-off as queues swelled outside the stadium. Limited police presence further complicated crowd control, leaving officials scrambling to prevent disorder among impatient supporters eager to enter the venue.

The situation deteriorated when scanners at primary checkpoints repeatedly rejected valid tickets. With tensions rising and fears of overcrowding building at entry gates, authorities ultimately allowed spectators through without verification. While the decision ensured the match began on schedule and may have prevented a potential stampede, it raised serious security and safety concerns.

Unverified access meant individuals with counterfeit tickets could have entered unnoticed, while sections inside the stadium appeared visibly overcrowded. Several supporters were left standing throughout the encounter, which Orlando Pirates comfortably won 3-0, highlighting concerns that attendance may have exceeded approved capacity levels.

Fan frustration was evident as many questioned the reliability of the new system. “This system is a mess, they must just do away with it. My ticket took five minutes to scan,” said Pirates supporter Mandla Khumalo.

Chiefs fan Koketso Mokoena shared a similar experience after eventually gaining entry. “My ticket didn’t scan at all and they had to allow me in because they realised that it’s their scanners that are faulty. The new system is user friendly when you buy tickets on the app but it’s always a struggle to get into the stadium.”