Why are Chiefs playing home games in Durban? Motaung Jr. responds

Kaizer Chiefs Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr. has justified the decision to play their home games in different venues in the country.

In the ongoing 2023/24 Premier Soccer League campaign, the Glamour Boys have just played three out of 14 matches at their primary FNB Stadium. The remaining 11 have been staged at either New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane or Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium. 

Some of the fans, especially those close to the FNB, have been unhappy with the decision by the management. However, Motaung Jr. has now explained the move and how it benefits the team.

There are some commercial arrangements benefiting Amakhosi

“There’s many components in that decision-making you know, it comes from a commercial perspective but also a fan engagement perspective, we have the privilege of having the fans that we do all over the country,” he stated.

“There are some commercial arrangements we have with some other provinces like we’ve always had as a club, it’s not new to the team right now, we have had instances where we had [hosted home] games in Cape Town, Rustenburg, and other provinces.

“It’s something the club will always look to continue to do, because again, the fans are important, you know, when we go to Durban, it’s a big stakeholder that wants to come out and see the team.”

It is a sacrifice to show love

“We have a relationship with the municipality, the same as Polokwane, and as years go on, things will change,” he continued.

“We know FNB is our home, it’s an iconic stadium that means everything to us. But it’s ideas we’re looking to as a team and institution, to say how we can give back to the people.

“I know logistics-wise, sometimes it’s a lot of travel but it’s a sacrifice to show the people that we’re with them and we’re together.”

On Sunday, the FNB Stadium will host the Nedbank Round of 32 game, between the Glamour Boys and Free Agents.