Local rivals AmaZulu and Golden Arrows are set for an early clash in the KZN Premier’s Cup after being drawn against each other in the pre-season tournament.
The highly anticipated match will take place at the newly refurbished Umhlathuze Stadium in Richards Bay on 26 July.
Tournament Structure and Key Matches
The KZN Premier’s Cup will run from 26-27 July. The winner of the Usuthu vs. Abafana Bes’Thende playoff on 26 July will advance to the semi-finals, scheduled for the following day.
In another playoff match on 26 July, Durban City will face Milford FC. The victor of this game will then take on the winner of the AmaZulu/Arrows match in the semi-finals.
On Sunday, 27 July, Midlands Wanderers and Richards Bay FC, who received a bye in the draw, will compete in the other semi-final.
Financial Incentives and Stadium Upgrades
While there is no prize money for the tournament winner, each participating team will receive a R700,000 participation fee. KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli confirmed that a total of R8 million has been allocated to cover the entire tournament’s expenses.
The host venue, Umhlathuze Stadium, has undergone significant upgrades. Closed in late 2021, its capacity has been expanded from 4,000 to 9,000 seats, and it has been deemed fit to host the competition.
Fan Access, Broadcast, and Match Rules
Entry to the KZN Premier’s Cup matches is free for spectators. Furthermore, the semi-finals will be broadcast live on SuperSport TV, allowing fans across the country to tune in.
To give clubs ample opportunity to assess their squads, teams will be permitted to make seven substitutes per match, instead of the usual five. In the event of a draw, games will proceed directly to a penalty shootout, with no extra time played.
Security and Defending Champions
Premier Ntuli also addressed security concerns, stating that he will contact KZN Lieutenant Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi to ensure a visible police presence around the stadium throughout the tournament week.
Royal AM, who are no longer existing, are the defending champions of the KZN Premier’s Cup, having won last year’s edition by defeating Maritzburg United (now known as Durban City) 4-3 on penalties at the Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi Regional Stadium in Ulundi.
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