A heated war of words has broken out between Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena and TS Galaxy coach Syed Ramovic. The feud, filled with accusations, insults and profanity, highlights the relentless pressure and passionate rivalries in top-level football.
Cause of feud: lack of respect
The hostility began in late November when Ramovic took issue with Mokwena's failure to acknowledge TS Galaxy's victory over Mamelodi Sundowns in the curling knockout round of 16. Ramovic felt Mokwena disrespected the team when the Sundowns coach blamed the defeat on the absence of key players.
“We don't want to make excuses like other coaches. [when they lose]” declared Ramovic. “For example, what excuse did the team give when they beat Sundowns?” [opposition] coach? He didn't play with those seven guys, so where's the respect for the guys that did? ”
failed peace attempt
Mokwena tried to smooth things over the phone, but the situation quickly deteriorated. Ramovic felt attacked and publicly revealed details of the controversial conversation.
Ramovic questioned Mokwena's leadership ability. “If he feels like he can't have a plan B, that's also about his qualifications, and I don't want to go there and I don't care.”I think we have principles, we have values. We care about one thing, we care about our players and no one will discount the hard work they did on this day to beat Sundowns. ”
Insults and F-bombs are thrown.
Mokwena hit back, suggesting Ramovic was simply seeking attention. “The only thing he's crying about is winning five games in a row. Notice…the guy is complaining, 'We won five games in a row and no one's talking about it.' Give it to me.”
But the feud took its darkest turn when Ramovic narrated the most explosive part of the phone call, quoting Mokwena directly. …This is my shitty country, so be careful what you say. ”
Feud with Fallout
This deeply personal attack raised questions about the perception of foreign coaches working in South Africa.
Mokwena subtly touched on this sensitive aspect, saying: “When you start saying 'the club spent a lot of money,' you are also belittling the Motsepe family, who are donating much of their hard-earned money.” It will happen,” he pointed out. Get your family hooked on soccer. ”
The rivalry between Mamelodi Sundowns and TS Galaxy promises to bring more fireworks and both coaches are clearly not willing to budge. This public altercation shows how pride, ego and the relentless quest for victory can explode in the cutthroat world of professional football.
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