Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium/Port Elizabeth

Newly built specifically for the 2010 World Cup, the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth is spectacular. Additional seating is being temporarily added to bring the stadium to the necessary capacity for hosting group stage events that require room for 50,000 spectators. The stadium is located within walking distance of North End Lake and has a stunning wave design for a roof that plays off the lakeside location.

The stadium was actually completed prior to the January 2010 deadline necessary to host games for the World Cup and has already begun active use. The open date of 6 June 2009 has been closely followed by a series of games and events despite the fact that the stadium has no current tenant. This will hopefully change soon and the brand new stadium will be home to either the Southern Kings, Bay United or both.

Group stage and second round games will be played here in addition to the second phase quarter final and culminating in the third/fourth playoff that will happen on 10 July. The lakeside location and proximity to a bevy of hotels makes it ideal for planning a little pre or post game relaxation near the water.

Hotels are in abundance near the stadium. Literally a few minutes in a taxi will get fans to the stadium. Vicinity to a major highway also makes transportation easy for those who can not get one of the nearby hotel rooms.