The stage is set for an absolute blockbuster this Saturday as the World Champion Springboks face off against Scotland at a packed Loftus Versfeld Stadium. With the stadium roaring toward a capacity crowd, SA Rugby has officially confirmed the powerhouse vocal talents selected to deliver the pre-match national anthems.
Following a highly praised anthem rendition during the season opener in Johannesburg, the responsibility of leading the nation in Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika at Loftus falls to none other than gospel sensation and television star Mmatema.
Meet the Anthem Powerhouses
The pre-kickoff ceremonies promise goosebumps for fans in Pretoria, with top-tier vocalists taking the mic:
- The South African Anthem: Sung by Mmatema (Mmatema Moremi, affectionately known as “Mrs G”). The 2015 Idols South Africa runner-up famously pivoted to gospel music, founding her own media production house and selling out the South African State Theatre solo. She is also widely recognized as a headline feature for the legendary Spirit of Praise ensemble.
- The Scottish Anthem: Delivered by Corlea Botha, one of South Africa’s most celebrated vocal prodigies and a premier cross-genre and Afrikaans music icon.
- The Curtain-Raiser (Springbok Women vs USA): The anthems for the women’s clash will be led by popular Afrikaans pop/country singer-songwriter Cordelia and Phillip Assis.
Immersive Entertainment: Loftus Debuts Multi-Million Rand LED Upgrade
Fans heading to Pretoria will also witness a piece of stadium history before the rugby even begins. The Blue Bulls Company has confirmed the completion of a massive, two-month technological overhaul of the stadium’s illumination.
Lighting specialists Afrison have completely ripped out and replaced all 272 legacy floodlights across the iconic corner pylons and stands. Taking their place is cutting-edge, energy-efficient LED technology alongside custom-built color showlights on the East and West canopies. For the first time ever, Loftus will be able to treat fans to immersive, synchronized pre-match light shows, completely elevating the stadium atmosphere.
