By Nyasha Chuma
HARARE – The Premier Soccer League says more than 25 000 paying supporters attended Sunday’s blockbuster Harare Derby between Dynamos FC and CAPS United FC, with estimated gate takings exceeding US$125 000, reports Express Mail Zim.
The estimate is based on standard US$5 entry tickets and excludes higher-priced VIP and VVIP ticket categories, meaning total matchday revenue could be significantly higher.
The massive turnout once again gives hope to the commercial strength of Zimbabwe’s biggest domestic football fixture and one of the country’s most powerful crowd-pulling sporting events. Dynamos and Caps United remain household names whose matches continue to draw national attention and fill stadiums.
In a statement released on Monday, the PSL praised supporters, clubs and stakeholders for contributing to what it described as an electric and successful matchday atmosphere.
“More than 25 000 paying fans created an incredible atmosphere, once again demonstrating the power, passion and unity of our football family,” the league said.
The league also commended sponsors, security teams and organising staff for ensuring the match ran smoothly and safely. Officials said the turnout reinforces the need to accelerate efforts to commercialise local football through better facilities, improved marketing and stronger private sector partnerships.
PSL officials noted that fixtures of this magnitude show the league’s capacity to generate significant revenue when properly structured, adding that increased commercialisation is key to raising player welfare, club viability and the overall standard of the game in Zimbabwe.
