SAFPU calls for action after Soweto Derby scuffle

April 28, 2026 18

The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) has called for an investigation into the chaotic scenes that unfolded before kick-off in Sunday’s Soweto Derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates at a sold-out FNB Stadium.

Before the match could begin, chaos erupted during the build-up as a violent clash between team officials and Pirates security personnel overshadowed the highly anticipated fixture.

What began as routine warm-ups descended into a physical confrontation that required the intervention of the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The scuffle broke out in Kaizer Chiefs’ designated training area, while Orlando Pirates continued their preparations at the opposite end of the pitch.

The intensity of the incident forced the Kaizer Chiefs technical team to take drastic measures, pulling their players off the field and abandoning their warm-up session as they returned to the changing rooms.

In a statement on Tuesday, SAFPU said it had noted the incident with “grave concern.”

The union said what transpired was “regrettable and unacceptable,” warning that such incidents damage the image of South African football and risk compromising player safety.

SAFPU added that this responsibility “cannot and must not be taken lightly.”