The Nedbank Cup makes its long-awaited return this weekend when Bidvest Wits takes on Mamelodi Sundowns, and Baroka FC tackles Bloemfontein Celtic FC in the tournament semi-finals.
In light of the Covid-19 pandemic, tournament sponsors Nedbank, together with the Premier Soccer League and the participating teams, are set to make a unique statement reminding fans that although they should be excited about football’s return, they should watch the matches responsibly at home. To symbolise this all participating players will wear a rainbow-coloured armband calling on all watching to #PlayYourPart.
“An armband in football is typically devoid of colour and symbolises mourning. We wanted to take this symbol and give it a new meaning, one of hope,’ says Khensani Nobanda, Group Executive of Marketing and Communications at Nedbank.
“Nothing is a greater symbol of hope than the colours of our national flag. By putting this on the arms of our footballing heroes, we hope that it will become a catalyst to inspire South Africa to #PlayYourPart and to remind ourselves that the only way we will get through this pandemic is together. Football’s return will likely have an unprecedented audience tuning in. While celebrating the positivity of sport as a unifier and bringing back the joy of live football, our aim is to entrench the importance of the entire country being disciplined to ensure that we protect each other and our loved ones,’ she says.
#PlayYourPart is a rallying call and a reminder to all South Africans that although football’s return is a reason to celebrate, we still need to stay safe and protect those around us, particularly society’s vulnerable.
PSL Acting Chief Executive Officer Mato Madlala said: “Our country is going through a lot of challenges at the moment. We know that this weekend millions will be glued to their TV screens to watch the return of the football starting with the Nedbank Cup. For now, we will play in empty stadiums until this storm passes, we urge supporters to #PlayYourPart in defeating Covid-19. Stay home and observe all protocols.”
The two Nedbank Cup semi-finals will be live on SuperSport and SABC on 8 August 2020 with the first match kicking off at 14:00. To find out more or to voice your support, search or post #PlayYourPart on social media.
Written by: Press release
