Chiefs issue apology over spectator behaviour

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Kaizer Chiefs have officially issued an apology following spectator misbehaviour during their 4-0 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday.

Amakhosi were eliminated from the Carling Knockout in the quarter-final stage at a packed FNB Stadium.

But the match was marred by spectator behaviour, with one of the fans pictured running after match referee Luxolo Badi.

The Chiefs have already been fined this season by the PSL following unruly behaviour of their supporters during their 2-1 loss to the same opponent earlier in the season.

OFFICIALLY APOLOGY FROM KAIZER CHIEFS AFTER SPECTATOR MISBEHAVIOUR

‘Kaizer Chiefs would like to sincerely apologise to all our stakeholders, sponsors, the Premier Soccer League (PSL), South African Football Association (SAFA), and our loyal supporters for the disappointing incidents witnessed on Saturday during the Carling Knockout Cup quarterfinal match against Mamelodi Sundowns,” the club said.

“While it was a beautiful day for football, it was unfortunately marred by behaviour that has no place in our beloved game.

“The invasion of the pitch and the throwing of missiles onto the field are completely unacceptable,” the club added.

Luxolo Badi: Picture courtesy of Nhlanhla Matshoma [FreshOnSnaps]

CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOL BLAMED FOR SOME OF THE BEHAVIOR AT THE FNB STADIUM

“Despite thorough preparations for the sold-out match, we observed issues arising early on, with some supporters already under the influence of alcohol before the game, leading to unwanted incidents. This highlights a pressing societal issue that the football industry and our communities must address collectively.”

Kaizer Chiefs have also taken action in response to the recent incidents. This includes collaborating with law enforcement agencies to ensure that all individuals involved in the pitch invasion and related disturbances are identified and appropriately dealt with under the law. Support for Legal Proceedings as the three fans were arrested and appeared in court on Monday morning.

The club is also working with those involved in organising the match to conduct a thorough investigation into the events of the Saturday evening. They also strongly condemned the excessive drinking observed at the match.

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