At least 2 000 fans will be allowed to watch Bafana Bafana’s return game against Ethiopia at the FNB Stadium on Tuesday.
On Monday Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, the minister of cooperative governance and traditional affairs, amended the Disaster Management regulations to allow fans to attend the crucial match.
Dlamini Zuma said the government has eased lockdown restrictions following trends in the progression of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“The decrease in the number of infections, as well as consultations with relevant stakeholders, has prepared the path for recognised sporting bodies to host sporting events, including both professional and non-professional competitions, subject to strict adherence to the guidelines,” said the minister.
She said under the new regulations, as part of phase one towards fully reopening sporting activities, spectators at the venue of the sports events are permitted but limited to 750 persons or less for indoor venues and 2000 persons or less for outdoor venues.
“If the venue is too small to hold the prescribed number of persons observing a distance of at least one and a half metres from each other, then not more than 50 percent of the capacity of the venue may be used, subject to strict adherence to all health protocols and social distancing measures,” said Dlamini Zuma.
“As we go out to sporting events to support our teams, let us do so recognising that Covid-19 is still with us.
“Let us unite in observing Covid-19 protocols by wearing masks, washing hands, and adhering to social distancing measures.”
Bafana lead Group G with seven points after their victory against Ethiopia on Saturday. The South Africans collected all three points away from home after beating a gallant Ethiopia side 3-1 to remain at the summit of Group G.
The victory keeps Bafana’s Qatar 2022 World Cup dream alive.
The game at the FNB stadium which kicks off at 6 pm will be the first time fans have been allowed into the stadium since the Covid-19 lockdowns were imposed.
Earlier this month the South African Football Association said only vaccinated fans would be allowed into the stadium.
