The FNB Stadium might be the last place on the planet Kaizer Chiefs would like to be playing soccer following the uncontrolled vandalism of their supporters on Saturday night during and after the 2-1 SAA Supa8 defeat against Bloemfontein Celtic.
But, like it or not, Amakhosi return to the scene of their shame on Thursday night for a Premier Soccer League game against Ajax Cape Town — knowing full well the urgent need to redeem themselves both on and off the pitch.
And on Wednesday, FNB Stadium general manager Dennis Mumble provided ample evidence of the damage involved — including the destruction of more than 5 000 seats, which could cost more than R600 000 to replace.
Mumble revealed that toilets were vandalised, car windscreens shattered and potentially dangerous bonfires lit, and a member of the police was forced to draw a pistol to defend himself against the mob.
”We hope it will be the calm after the storm on Thursday night,” said Mumble, ”but we are not taking chances and extra security will be on hand to ensure there is no trouble.”
Mumble also revealed that supporters on the terraces who seemingly played a role in igniting the trouble on Saturday night have been identified from TV videos, and criminal proceedings could be instituted against them.
It’s not an enviable scenario for Chiefs new German coach, Ernst Middendorp, who has hardly been given the time needed to settle down and find his feet in a strange environment — and this with a team who have lost their most vital cog in ”goal king” Collins Mbesuma and clearly need a fresh influx of talent after annexing the Premier League title in successive seasons. ‒ Sapa