Sundowns Condemn Fan Misconduct After Incident Involving Sporting Director
Mamelodi Sundowns have released a statement condemning the behaviour of some of the club’s supporters after an unidentified liquid was allegedly poured on sporting director Flemming Berg.
A video circulating on social media shows a fan throwing liquid at Berg as he was leaving the venue following Sundowns’ frustrating 2-2 draw against Al Hilal in the CAF Champions League at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday.
Berg has repeatedly been the target of criticism from sections of the fan base, with some supporters blaming him for various decisions, including the sacking of Rulani Mokwena at the end of the 2023/24 season.
Speaking in a radio interview after his departure, Mokwena revealed that he did not have a good working relationship with Berg and that they disagreed on several issues within the club.
Supporters have also called for Berg to step down and have urged the club to dismiss head coach Miguel Cardoso. In recent matches, fans have chanted the name of Pitso Mosimane — widely regarded as Sundowns’ greatest coach — who has been linked with a possible return to the club, including during the match against Orbit College.
In a statement, Sundowns said: “Mamelodi Sundowns condemns the behaviour and conduct of the few ill-disciplined supporters who disrupted members of the Sundowns technical team as they were leaving the stadium after the match against Al Hilal.
“Sundowns has always encouraged active supporter participation and engagement, which must be conducted with respect and courtesy.
“Mamelodi Sundowns will not tolerate any threats, illegal behaviour or intimidation by any of its supporters at any of its matches. Appropriate legal or disciplinary action will be taken against those whose conduct is found to be illegal or contrary to the policies and rules of the Sundowns Supporters.
“The players and technical team are focused on retaining the league title and competing successfully in all cup competitions. This can only be achieved with the support and encouragement of Mamelodi Sundowns supporters.”
It remains to be seen whether Berg will consider stepping down should the hostile behaviour from sections of the fan base continue, with some supporters insisting that he is the club’s biggest problem.
