Even before Kaizer Chiefs kicks the ball in tonight’s single-legged 2021 CAF Champions League final against Al Ahly, South Africans are rallying behind the Soweto Giants.
After a week of unrest and looting that stirred tribal, racial, and political divisions – it is the words of the great man Nelson Mandela that are turning prophetic.
Fans from all walks of life are declaring their support for the Phefeni Glamour Boys.
At the inaugural Laureus World Sports Awards in 2000, Nelson Mandela, declared that: “Sport has the power to change the world.
“It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does.
“It speaks to youth in a language they understand. Sport can create hope where once there was only despair.
“It is more powerful than governments in breaking down racial barriers. It laughs in the face of all types of discrimination.”
Today even those who do not ordinarily support Kaizer Chiefs are united behind the team as South Africa recovers from an awful week.
Many fans are proudly posting pictures on social media in their Amakhosi colours ahead of the historic match against Pitso Mosimane’s Red Devils.
The giants clash at 9pm at the Mohamed V Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco.
The final will be live on Supersport Channel 202 in South Africa, Channel 205 in Nigeria, and Channel 225 throughout the rest of the African continent.
On Sunday the world will be celebrating Mandela Day – a time to do and feel good.