Mamelodi told journalists on Wednesday that the aim is to use the derby to sell local football. He said despite being the flagship match of the BPL, the derby has over the years not received the respect it deserves in terms of the numbers at the stadium. Mamelodi added the two teams have quality in technical teams, playing squads and administration personnel and it is still a mystery why local fans still shun such an exhibition of the best of the local league. "There is a lot at stake on Saturday. It is not just the three points and it is not just the bragging rights. It is also for the brand because the derby tends to register unwanted records when you look at African football. It is also the only national derby that does not fill the stadium and that record has to end this Saturday. We want every Motswana to come and that record from our side, we need to fill the stadium to the rafters like any other national derby in Africa," Mamelodi said.
The first-round tie attracted multitudes, as Rollers ran out as winners in front of a near-capacity crowd. GU's marketing and communications manager, Herbert Letsebe, said by Tuesday evening over 4, 000 tickets had been printed and were selling fast. The National Stadium holds over 20, 000 spectators. He assured spectator control and safety as the hosts. GU have beefed security and there will be the presence of the Botswana Police Service. To entice the fans, GU have lined up exciting and upcoming artists, Chokoma, Figos, and DJ Modric. The captains from the two camps promised to leave it all on the field with the city bragging rights and maximum points at stake. "It is a big game. I know all the games we play we are playing for three points but this one has its own thing and the boys are ready. We are still left with two more days to train but the mood is okay and we are ready," Rollers' Simisane Mathumo said.
His GU counterpart, Mothusi Johnson, will lead the team for the first time in the derby after being handed the armband last month. "We are going into the game on Saturday knowing we have just come from a win and we are going in for a win. It will not be an easy one for them. For me, it is a dream come true to lead a team like Gaborone United and I want to help the team win this derby," Johnson said. Tickets for the game are selling at P50 Grand Stand and P30 for the rest of the stands.
