Safety Concerns for South African Fans in Morocco
The president of the South African National Supporters (SANASU), Saddam Maake, has expressed significant concern regarding the safety of Mamelodi Sundowns supporters as they prepare to travel to Morocco for the second leg of the CAF Champions League final. This organization is dedicated to uniting and representing football fans throughout South Africa, and Maake's apprehensions highlight the alarming incidents that occurred in the first leg of the final.
Following the conclusion of the first leg at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria, where Sundowns secured a narrow 1-0 victory over AS FAR Rabat, violent clashes erupted between the two sets of fans. Maake, who was present at the match, recounted witnessing distressing scenes as supporters became embroiled in conflict. "I was at Loftus since it was a very important CAF Champions League final. I managed to get near the visiting club's supporters because I wanted to find out the source of the problem," he stated. This encounter revealed the gravity of the situation, with reports of injuries and even a supporter jumping from the upper tier of the stands, leading to the arrival of medical stretchers.
As the leader of SANASU, Maake condemned the violence, emphasizing that it is not an isolated incident, as similar occurrences have plagued this prestigious tournament in the past. He remarked, "This is a big problem because in such matches, we usually bring our families, including children." Reflecting on his experiences in international football, he recalled being told by supporters in Ivory Coast that South Africans have become a source of concern, suggesting that the ongoing violence could lead to dire consequences for fans traveling abroad. "Right now, as I'm speaking, I received a message on my phone telling me how we South Africans like fighting," he added.
Maake also addressed the tensions surrounding the officiating during the match, noting that Moroccan fans were incensed over perceived injustices. He recounted a conversation with a Moroccan supporter who claimed, "We have been robbed! You guys are busy switching off the VAR so that you can rob us!" This frustration stemmed from the VAR technology appearing to malfunction at a critical moment in the match, leading to misinterpretations and heightened emotions among the fans.
In light of these troubling events, Maake announced that SANASU’s executive members would convene to discuss the situation and draft a letter to the South African Football Association (SAFA). The aim is to seek assurances regarding the safety of Sundowns supporters when they travel to Morocco for the decisive second leg of the CAF Champions League final. As the situation unfolds, the safety of fans remains a paramount concern for all stakeholders involved.
As reported by kickoff.com.
