By Kopano Dibakwane
The announcement by the PSL(Premier Soccer League) that Mbombela stadium will host the highly-anticipated MTN8 final match between Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch FC on 13 September 2025, was welcomed by the Premier of Mpumalanga, Mandla Ndlovu.
The Premier said the event will not only draw fans from across the country and within the province, but it will serve as a significant economic boost to benefit local businesses such as hotels, guest houses, restaurants, and hospitality services.
Ndlovu also said the finals came at the time when Mpumalanga is hard at work to improve its rankings as the leading province with the highest number of international and domestic visitors, as spearheaded by the MTPA(Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency).
“ We are absolutely thrilled and deeply honoured to be chosen as the host province for the MTN8 Soccer Final. This is not just a football match, but an event that will showcase the scenic beauty and hospitality of Mpumalanga.
“We extend a warm invitation to all football enthusiasts to join us in our beautiful province for this spectacular final. Let us come together to support soccer in general, and experience the charm of our province. We look forward to welcoming everyone and making this final a memorable occasion,” said Premier Ndlovu.
The MEC for Culture, Sport and Recreation, Leah Mabuza, as well as other MECs(Members of the Executive Council) equally welcomed the decision by the PSL to host the MTN8 finals in the Place of the Rising Sun. Mabuza encouraged all soccer lovers to buy their tickets on time and arrive early on the day of the match.
“ This is a sign of confidence in the province’s ability to organise and host major events. I am equally grateful to the Premier for the instrumental role he has played in making a compelling case to the soccer body for our city’s readiness to host matches of such high caliber.
“The Wafa Wafa final will not only bring joy to football supporters but will also put our province on the map. It is my wish that football supporters will fill the Mbombela Stadium to capacity, giving the PSL even more reasons to bring future cup finals to our province,” said MEC Mabuza.
Premier Ndlovu urged all stakeholders to maintain a high standard of quality service during the weekend of the match.
He furthermore encouraged all visitors to extend their stay and explore the abundance of tourist attractions that the province has to offer.
“We urge all stakeholders to deliver a world-class service that reflects the warmth and vibrancy of our province. These range from the logistical arrangements of food, accommodation, transport and security, to be handled meticulously, for our travellers,” said Ndlovu.
