The Polokwane Municipality has confirmed that both the New and Old Peter Mokaba Stadiums are ready to host competitive fixtures ahead of the upcoming MTN8 semi-finals.
The New Peter Mokaba Stadium is set to host the first-leg clash between Sekhukhune United and defending champions Orlando Pirates on the weekend of August 22–23, after concerns had been raised over the venue’s readiness following its annual off-season pitch rehabilitation.
Both stadiums recently underwent pitch rehabilitation, which temporarily forced Polokwane City and Sekhukhune United to move their home fixtures to Seshego Stadium.
However, Polokwane Municipality’s Sport and Recreation Manager, Mantlhakho Sebaka, has confirmed that the two main venues have now been cleared for immediate use.
“Both the New and Old Stadiums are ready this weekend to host any competitive match, including international events. The MTN8 is being held on the 22 and 23 August, and all is well,” Sebaka told FARPost.
The municipality’s grounds maintenance team began preparations for the new season at the start of July, with a focus on ensuring that the playing surfaces remain in prime condition throughout the campaign.
Seshego Stadium served as a suitable temporary home for the affected clubs while the rehabilitation work was carried out.
The Old Peter Mokaba Stadium is also in good condition, highlighting the municipality’s continued investment in maintaining football facilities across the city.
Polokwane’s stadiums have earned praise from several PSL and international coaches for the quality of their playing surfaces, with the Peter Mokaba Stadium widely regarded as one of the leading football venues on the continent in terms of pitch quality.
With the rehabilitation work completed and both venues cleared for use, Sekhukhune United are expected to return to the New Peter Mokaba Stadium for their highly anticipated MTN8 semi-final first leg against Orlando Pirates.