The SAFA Vhembe promotional play-offs, scheduled to take place this weekend at Tshifulanani and Makhuvha stadiums, have been postponed because of unresolved disciplinary and arbitration matters.
The matches were originally scheduled for Saturday and Sunday but could not proceed because several outstanding cases have yet to be finalised. These include an arbitration matter involving Musina All Stars and Berea FC, as well as an appeal between FC Basel and Tshamutilikwa Fire Boys.
Another matter involving Mukondeni Royal and Mashamba Soccer Academy was concluded on 2 July after Mashamba Soccer Academy successfully appealed the outcome of a disciplinary hearing, securing its place in the promotional play-offs. However, there are allegations that Mukondeni Royal intend to take the matter to arbitration, a move that could result in further delays to the competition.
SAFA Vhembe secretary Mr Sam Matodzi confirmed that two matters remain unresolved but expressed confidence that the promotional play-offs would now be held on 11 and 12 July at Tshifulanani and Makhuvha stadiums.
He said the tournament would start at 07:00, with the 10 participating teams divided into two groups. The competition will be played in a mini-league format, with each team playing two matches a day. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals and final, scheduled for 18 July at Thohoyandou Stadium.
Matodzi appealed to football supporters to collect their entrance tickets before the final matches. Although admission will be free, spectators will be required to have a ticket to gain entry.
“Thohoyandou Stadium has a capacity of about 18,000 spectators. We are issuing free tickets to manage the crowd and prevent overcrowding or stampedes at the stadium,” said Matodzi.
Teams in Stream A are Maelula United Brothers, Berea FC/Musina All Stars, FC Basel/Tshamutilikwa Fire Boys, Saudi FC and Ntsemi FC.
Stream B comprises Mahangala Young Stars, Ramantsha Blackpool, ABC FC, Mashamba Soccer Academy and Nditwani Shooting Stars.