By Mamodima Monnakgotla
Last night, courtesy of my beloved employer, my colleagues and I attended the international friendly match between PSL 2018 Champions, Mamelodi Sundowns and La Liga’s unbeaten giants, Barcelona at FNB stadium.
Last night, courtesy of my beloved employer, my colleagues and I attended the international friendly match between PSL 2018 Champions, Mamelodi Sundowns and La Liga’s unbeaten giants, Barcelona at FNB stadium.
On arrival, we knew were missing out on the action taking place on the pitch with the stadium crowd roaring from inside the calabash. So we hurriedly made our way to the top level for a perfect view of the festivities, only to be met by a 2-0 score in favour of the visitors.
Although our excitement was barely tainted, a great concern hovered in my head as I witnessed my fellow countrymen and women expressing more appreciation for Barcelona over our local heroes.
In fact, I am a Orlando Pirates supporter, but my patriotism would not allow me to enjoy the victory that the masses had already given away. For me, this game was South Africa vs Spain. My loyalties lie with my own.
To hear the fans call out, “Meeeessiiii, Meeeessiiii…” left me wondering if we lacked our own ambassadors of stardom and excellence.
I wondered why our stadium songs were suddenly not as entertaining as the Mexican wave and why the yellow Masandawana guard was swallowed by the sea of unknowns.
Perhaps, I am too competitive. Maybe my grievance comes from an unsettled historical background but what I am certain of is that last night, the confidence I had in my South African home and South African people was wasted away on Barcelona, their team.
The glorious game ended at a 3-1 win for the Spanish who departed with added medallions of one fan running onto the pitch to disturb the game and another pouncing on Messi while he was warming up.
Thank you SA.
