Mamelodi Sundowns’ request to use the FNB Stadium for their CAF Champions League clash against TP Mazembe was rejected last week.
Their home ground will be unavailable this weekend for their scheduled Group A clash against Linafoot giants due to the Blue Bulls fixture against the Stormers.
Soccer City, which is listed as their alternative venue, and one they used to face off against Al Ahly and Petro de Luanda a couple of seasons ago was also deemed unavailable.
Despite reports stating they would be playing at the iconic 2010 FIFA World Cup final venue, iDiski Times had it confirmed by Stadium Management no agreement was made.
This is due to three games being scheduled for the stadium in the space of seven days, with Kaizer Chiefs facing Moroka Swallows, and Golden Arrows on 2 and 5 March – before Orlando Pirates hosting Amakhosi for the Soweto Derby on Saturday 9, March.
As things stand, Lucas Mastpercies Moripe Stadium seems the most likely option for Masandawana – but the arena was deemed not up to the required standards by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) at the start of the 2023/24 season.
However, Sundowns worked around the clock to repair the damage to the turnstiles and pitch, before hosting Burundi Premier League champions Bumamuru in September.
Mbombela Stadium and the New Peter Mokaba Stadium were also discussed, however, it appears the game will remain in Gauteng for the Saturday clash, with Sundowns already qualified for the knockout stages of Africa’s elite club competition.
