Khompela urges fans to arrive early

Over 87 000 spectators are expected to make their way to the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg for the Carling Knockout quarterfinal between Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns.

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) announced this morning that tickets for the match are sold out, prompting concerns over traffic and the match possibly not starting on time.

The last time the two sides met was in September in a league clash at the same venue. That match had to be delayed, allowing fans to make it into the stadium safely.

Sundowns Senior Coach, Steve Khompela, has added his voice to calls for fans to arrive early at the calabash.

“I must also convey a message that the ambiance and environment were made perfect by supporters. Only they can come earlier,” Komphela said.

“Only they can come earlier because it’s got a whole lot of other dynamics in it. But when they delay the start of the match, it affects your match-day routine. Because you would say in preparation for a match, you say the match is at 3pm. What time is your pre-match meal? What time is your pre-match talk? The minute the match gets postponed or delayed a bit, then it will affect your pre-match meeting, departure from the hotel, and pre-match meal.”

He continued: “So, it does affect us big time. And the psychology of sports as well.” Written by Ntsako Mkhari