Mmabatho - The North West Provincial Government is confident that the FIFA inspection team will declare that Rustenburg is ready to host both the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup when it visits the Royal Bafokeng Stadium on Thursday.
The inspection team will assess the changes that are taking place at the stadium.
The stadium, which could previously only seat 39 000 fans, is currently being upgraded to accommodate 45 000. While it was already well-equipped, new electronic scoreboards, floodlights and a new public address system will be included.
North West Premier Edna Molewa said the province was ready to host the major international event which kicks off in June. She personally visited the stadium last week to check on the progress of the stadium for herself and to ensure the upgrading was in line with FIFA requirements.
"I am satisfied that as a province and Rustenburg, we are on course and ready to deliver on our pledge to stage the best soccer event ever," said Ms Molewa.
The Royal Bafokeng Stadium will host New Zealand vs Spain on 14 June 2009; South Africa vs New Zealand on 17 June 2009 and Egypt vs the United States on 21 June 2009.
