Fans warned of major road closures ahead of Pirates vs Durban City FC clash

Johannesburg residents have been advised to brace for bumper-to-bumper traffic in and around Soweto on Saturday, ahead of the Betway Premiership fixture between Orlando Pirates and Durban City FC at the Orlando Amstel Arena.

The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) has confirmed that officers will be deployed at major intersections to manage traffic, ensure safety, and maintain order. 

Officials say roads will be closed from 10:30am ahead of the 3pm kickoff, with heavy traffic expected on key routes, including the N17, Soweto Highway, Kumalo Main Road, Klipspruit Valley Road, Martha Louw Drive, Mooki, and Sofasonke Street among others.

JMPD also confirmed that officers will monitor traffic hotspots around Mofokeng Street and Nkom Ya Hlaba Street.

Traffic patterns are expected to change after the match, with Klipspruit Valley Road temporarily becoming a one-way route towards the N17 traffic circle. Vehicles travelling via the N1 South off-ramp and N17 will be redirected towards Nasrec Road and Riverlea.

The Soweto Highway will also be closed at Eben Cuyler Drive after the game, with motorists from Diepkloof diverted through Moshoeshoe Street in Orlando East.

JMPD spokesperson, Xolani Fihla, urged fans to arrive early and plan their trips carefully to avoid delays.

“Motorists and residents are requested to remain patient during this period and use alternative routes where possible,” said Fihla.

Fans unable to secure parking near the venue have been directed to designated parking areas, including nearby schools such as Shomane High, Orlando High and Lofentse Girls High.

However, officials say parking inside the stadium precinct will be reserved strictly for VIPs, media and VOC members.

ICYMI
MEDIA ALERT

TRAFFIC ADVISORY: Road Closures and Disruptions for Betway Premiership Match at Orlando
Amstel Arena #SaferJoburg #JoburgRoadSafety #JHBTraffic @orlandopirates pic.twitter.com/gzaxUJkN0s

— Jo’burg Metro Police Department – JMPD (@JoburgMPD) May 15, 2026

Football fans have expressed excitement ahead of the much-anticipated match, as the season draws to a close.

Who else is coming to Orlando Amstel Arena this weekend? ♥️☠️🔥🙆‍♂️ pic.twitter.com/mjZSH7smeP

— STAR. (@makwande_m) May 15, 2026

Orlando Pirates supporters, tomorrow this time! ☠️☠️☠️☠️#OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/xSIJBfeZRV

— ‘Rato (@Lorato_Xaba) May 15, 2026

Manchester city will win the FA cup tomorrow .🕯️
Orlando Pirates will win the league tomorrow .🕯️
Ronaldo will also win a trophy tomorrow .🕯️

— Mfazi kaNduli 🩵🏴‍☠️ (@Nonny_Pine) May 15, 2026