Moses Mabhida Stadium to host two Telkom Knockout quarter-finals, AmaZulu lose venue battle

AmaZulu have lost their battle to have their Telkom Knockout quarter-final against Orlando Pirates played at their usual home ground, King Zwelithini Stadium in uMlazi.

The Premier Soccer League announced on Monday that Usuthu will have to host the Buccaneers at Durban’s 2010 World Cup venue, Moses Mabhida Stadium, instead.

AmaZulu were hoping to have the game at their preferred venue, as Cavin Johnson’s team are unbeaten in six matches there this season – which includes wins over Baroka FC, Free State Stars and Cape Town City, and draws with Maritzburg United, Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns.

Usuthu’s manager Qedi Dlamini said previously if King Zwelithini Stadium was not suitable, then the club hoped their second-choice Princess Magogo Stadium would be chosen.

Acting PSL chief executive Mato Madlala had told Independent Media on Saturday that they had “raised a few things as the league, and AmaZulu have to write to us and respond about those issues.

“Yes, AmaZulu have played Pirates at home, but that was their own game. This is a knockout competition, and we are responsible for everything that happens.

“We want teams to play where they want to play, but everything must be in order.”

And in another decision that is sure to be criticised in football circles, Moses Mabhida Stadium will also host Kaizer Chiefs’ quarter-final against SuperSport United on Sunday.

There is a third playoff in KZN this weekend, with Maritzburg United taking on Wits at their regular home ground, Harry Gwala Stadium in Pietermaritzburg, while Baroka FC will face Mamelodi Sundowns at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.