Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein / Mangaung
Posted on 26. Mar, 2010 by admin in Bloemfontein
Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein / Mangaung is home to some of the best atmosphere and most fanatical support in South Africa. Football fans coming here for matches will no doubt be greeted with a wall of sound as locals get behind guest teams and add their considerable verve to proceedings. Plus the Bafana Bafana will be gracing the pitch against France on June 22 in what is sure to be a momentous occasion.
Before the 2009 Confederations cup the stadium was given a thorough make-over to ensure it was capable of hosting such as prestigious international tournament. After seeing one of the most memorable games of that contest played here, the thrilling semi-final match between USA and Spain, Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein proved itself amongst the best venues on the continent. 
Originally built in 1952 with a new capacity up 7,000 to 45,000 fans, Manaung’s Free State Stadium is now worthy of the passion of the football-crazy local support. Throughout the venue’s history it has hosted both football and rugby union matches, although recently it is the beautiful game that has captured the hearts and minds of Bloemfontein residents. The local team, Bloemfontein Celtic, is supported by some of the most dedicated fans in the county, known as Siwelele in Sotho.
Games to be played at Free State Stadium in Mangaung / Bloemfontein
Group stage
14 June - group E Japan vs Cameroon
17 June - group B Greece vs Nigeria
20 June - group F Slovakia vs Paraguay
22 June - group A France vs South Africa
25 June - group H Switzerland vs Honduras
Knock-out stage
27 June - second round 1D – 2C
