Maskandi star Mthandeni makes impassioned plea to Chiefs fans about Bafana support
Popular Maskandi star Mthandeni “Igcokama Elisha” Manqele has appealed to Kaizer Chiefs supporters to put club loyalties aside and rally behind Bafana Bafana at the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Mexico, US and Canada.
The musician, a well-known Amakhosi supporter, made the plea after some Chiefs fans expressed frustration over the limited representation of their club in Hugo Broos’ final World Cup squad. The disappointment has led some supporters to declare that they will not support Bafana during the tournament, with others even suggesting they would back any team facing South Africa.
Concerned by the growing negativity, Mthandeni took to social media to encourage fellow Chiefs fans to stand behind the national team despite their frustrations.
“I am begging you, supporters of my beautiful Kaizer Chiefs,” Mthandeni wrote on Facebook.
“Let us love our Bafana Bafana and give them support at the World Cup so that they can score a goal or two. Let us do it for our boy, Bradley Cross. I am begging you.”
Bradley Cross is the only current Chiefs player included in Broos’ 26-man squad for the global showpiece. The defender has quickly become a fan favourite, with supporters chanting his name during Bafana’s recent goalless draw against Nicaragua.
However, many Amakhosi fans remain upset over the omission of goalkeeper Brandon Petersen. The shot-stopper enjoyed an impressive season and was initially included in the preliminary 32-man squad but failed to make the final cut for Mexico.
Despite the controversy, Mthandeni believes national pride should come first and hopes Chiefs supporters will unite behind Bafana as they prepare to represent South Africa on football’s biggest stage.