Mamelodi Sundowns Fans defend versatile player Rivaldo Coetzee after Wydad AC clash.
Casablanca Clash
In a heated first leg of the African Football League final, Mamelodi Sundowns faced a formidable challenge against Wydad AC at Mohammed V Stadium.
The home team, Wydad Athletic Club, dominated the early game, putting Sundowns’ defence under pressure, particularly on the right flank.
Coetzee’s Unfortunate Deflection
The pressure culminated in the 43rd minute when Wydad’s Mountassir Lahtimi, after outmaneuvering Sundowns’ defence, delivered a cross that led to an own goal by Rivaldo Coetzee.
The incident occurred shortly before Lahtimi was taken off due to an injury sustained in a collision with Tebogo Mokoena.
Support From The Sharpeville Branch For Coetzee
Despite some fans’ criticism of Coetzee for the own goal, the Sharpeville Branch of Mamelodi Sundowns’ supporters stood in solidarity with the defender.
They expressed their support on X, emphasizing that mistakes are part of the game and highlighting the team spirit of football.
Rivaldo Coetzee was unlucky last night with that own goal. Just like our warrior Mothobi Mvala, he must know that it's just a mistake and they happen.
Football is a team sport and we stand with him.
He remains a soldier of Mamelodi Sundowns.#Sundowns 👆🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/cFLtgPjgDh
— Mamelodi Sundowns Sharpeville Branch® (@MS_Sharpeville) November 6, 2023
A Resilient Comeback And A Sudden Setback
Sundowns showed resilience, equalizing in the 75th minute through Abdelmounaim Boutouil.
However, their joy was short-lived as Wydad’s Anas Serrhat secured the win with a stunning goal in the 79th minute.
Looking Ahead
The teams are set to rematch on Sunday, November 12th, at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria.
With kickoff at 3 pm, Sundowns will have a chance to redeem themselves in front of their home crowd.
AFL Final 2nd Leg Rescheduled!
The African Football League final second leg clash between Mamelodi Sundowns and Wydad AC is rescheduled to the 12th of November from the 11th.#thecoverup #Sundowns #AFL #Wydad pic.twitter.com/LPJ8jraUfm
— The CoverUp (@thecoverup94) November 3, 2023
The upcoming match promises to be a thrilling encounter as Sundowns aim to overturn their deficit and claim victory in the prestigious tournament.
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