Latest news with #HermanGibbs
IOL News
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Mamelodi Sundowns a shining light for African football at Fifa Club World Cup
Lucas Ribeiro Costa was one of the top players for Mamelodi Sundowns at the Club World Cup. Photo: AFP Image: AFP Comment by Herman Gibbs Mamelodi Sundowns emerged as the stand-out African club at the Fifa Club World Cup, which saw all four African representatives failing to advance to the knockout stage. On Wednesday night in Miami, despite a gripping 0-0 draw against the Brazilian football powerhouse Fluminense, Sundowns fell just one point shy of reaching the last-16 round. At the start of the tournament, Masandawana were overshadowed by the likes of Borussia Dortmund and Fluminense. However, they quickly transformed into a team that captured the imagination of the fans while demonstrating their mettle on the world stage. Their presence in Group F became a narrative of inspiration and unexpected brilliance since very little was known about the South Africans before the tournament. Travelling to the USA to represent South Africa alongside African heavyweights like Al Ahly from Egypt, Tunisia's Esperance, and Morocco's Wydad Casablanca, Sundowns were aware of the challenge that lay ahead. Collectively, those teams boast an impressive legacy of 19 CAF Champions League titles. Disappointingly, none managed to progress past the group phase, with Masandawana making the most memorable impression despite their early departure. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading Sundowns found themselves grappling with a pace of play and pressing intensity they seldom experience domestically. The volume of turnovers and inability to maintain possession indicated the pressure exerted by their rivals. Each match became a trial by fire, but the Brazilians proved they could rise to the occasion against stiff competition. The stands at Hard Rock Stadium on Wednesday were filled predominantly with Fluminense's supporters. However, the contingent of 50 yellow-and-green-clad Sundowns fans created a gala-like atmosphere. Their spirited chants, elaborate choreography and rhythmic drumming transcended the noise levels, inviting neutral spectators to join their celebration. Their fans, some donned in exquisite sequined headdresses, painted a vivid picture of dedication and passion that echoed through the venue. The Club World Cup offers a platform for teams from around the globe to showcase their talents, and Mamelodi Sundowns took full advantage of this opportunity. A point earned and a clean sheet in our final #FIFACWC game, as our season comes to a close 👆#Sundowns #TakeItToTheWorld #AfricaToTheWorld — Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) June 26, 2025
IOL News
26-06-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Squad imbalance, poor management decisions led to Cape Town City's PSL relegation
Cape Town City owner John Comitis will start preparing for life in the Motsepe Foundation Championship. Photo: BackpagePix Comment by Herman Gibbs Cape Town City FC's stint in the top-flight Premiership came to a catastrophic end following a 1-0 defeat against Orbit College in a PSL promotion/relegation playoff clash on Wednesday. Players were left in shock as disbelief swept through the squad after the final whistle, their dreams of remaining in the Premiership dashed in a match that epitomised their struggles this season. Cape Town City, historically a formidable presence by finishing in the top eight for each of their previous eight seasons, found themselves failing to rise to the occasion when it mattered most. In what is a seismic shift in South African football, the club's catastrophic fall to the First Division marks a spectacular decline for a team that was once a formidable presence in South African football. This season's results contrast starkly with City's notable achievements, such as winning the 2016 Telkom Knockout, the 2018 MTN8, and finishing runners-up in the 2021-22 season behind perennial champions Mamelodi Sundowns. Wednesday's defeat, which resulted from a performance devoid of the necessary grit and determination, has left fans and analysts questioning the heart and character of the squad. With the likes of Thulani Serero, Thabo Nodada, Fortune Makaringe and Lorenzo Gordinho, as well as veteran players such as Darren Keet and Thamsanqa Mkhize, City entered the playoffs with high expectations. However, the weight of pressure was palpable, and when it mattered most, the team failed to step up, lacking the resolve to fight for their survival. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading In the past few weeks, analysts pointed to the squad's imbalance, exacerbated further by insipid recruitment strategies and poor management decisions throughout the season. Since the departure of Khanyisa Mayo to CR Belouizdad in Algeria, the striker dilemma has plagued the side. Their late-season signing, Amadou Soukouna, failed to make a significant impact at the Citizens. The decision to let go of pivotal players such as Darwin Gonzalez, their highest scorer, proved to be a baffling move that left a gaping hole in an already fragile line-up ahead of the playoffs. City's efforts were further hampered by the departure of key defender Keanu Cupido, who was sold to Sundowns, leaving the team vulnerable at the back. Halfway through the season, the club was thrown into disarray as it grappled with the consequences of managerial decisions. In December, the dismissal of head coach Eric Tinkler initiated a ripple effect that has left the club's future precariously hanging in the balance. In a bid to right the ship, the club appointed the seasoned Muhsin Ertugral, whose extensive experience in South African football was seen as a glimmer of hope. Today it hurts. Tomorrow marks the start of a response that'll define us. Thank you for your support, Citizens. Keep your heads up. We leave with heavy hearts, 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗲𝗺𝗽𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀 💙#iamCityFC — Cape Town City FC (@CapeTownCityFC) June 25, 2025 Initial successes against heavyweight rivals, including dramatic victories over established teams like Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, fostered a sense of optimism among fans and board members alike. However, this promising start quickly faded, and results took a downward spiral that would seal the team's fate. Owner John Comitis, a respected figure in South African football administration, must ultimately shoulder the blame. He faced mounting criticism for the decisions he made. In hindsight, he failed to make prudent investments and recruit suitably experienced players. As the club transitions into the Motsepe Foundation Championship next season, the focus will inevitably shift to rebuilding a squad capable of attaining promotion back to the top-flight. This relegation not only marks a significant loss for the club, but also reverberates through the local football community in Cape Town, where the absence of a top-tier squad will leave a noticeable void. Football fans in the Mother City and promising young players face an uncertain future, and the once-celebrated Cape Town City find themselves at a crossroads.
The Star
21-06-2025
- Sport
- The Star
As stinking-rich Mamelodi Sundowns become richer, implications for Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates profound
Herman Gibbs | Published 3 hours ago Straight Talk Column by Herman Gibbs Mamelodi Sundowns will receive an impressive R174 million just for participating in the 2025 Fifa Club World Cup, as well as R36 million for each victory during the group stage. This substantial financial injection will enable Sundowns to easily maintain and enhance their stronghold in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), ensuring their ongoing dominance in domestic football. However, this development is rather ominous for the PSL's two glamour teams, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates. Both clubs boast a rich history and monumental fan-bases, often highlighted by the 'sold out' Soweto Derbies, where passion and rivalry ignite stadiums. Chiefs and Pirates have also enjoyed the thrill of several capacity crowds over the past two seasons. Until recently, Chiefs have not won a trophy in a decade, but they continue to attract lucrative sponsorships based on their pulling power, despite dwindling crowds. Yet, as Sundowns' dominance continues to grow, these storied franchises appear increasingly destined to remain in the shadows of their Chloorkop rivals. Sundowns' motto, 'The sky is the limit', reflects a commitment to transcend the traditional boundaries of sporting success. Their emblem – a hand poised with a finger pointing skyward – symbolises an aspiration that knows no limitations, whether rooted in historical performance or geographical challenges. The tragedy of the situation is that Chiefs and Pirates have shown no ambition to reclaim their lost glory, and will remain ensnared in the slipstream of Sundowns' relentless pursuit of excellence. There is no evidence that the 'Soweto Giants' will rise to challenge Masandawana or continue to watch from the shadows. While Sundowns have been in the United States, the club's chairman, Tlhopie Motsepe, outlined the Brazilians' ambitious plans to invest in local talent development and expand essential infrastructure. At the heart of this vision is the establishment of a world-class academy aimed at nurturing home-grown talent. Motsepe emphasised that the goal is to ensure the finest local players do not have to look overseas to join the ranks of prestigious European clubs. He spoke about an academy that stands toe-to-toe with Europe's elite institutions. He also highlighted the urgent need for robust infrastructure, notably the club's aspiration to build a stadium, noting the benefits of having a dedicated venue as a home ground. On the playing field, the Fifa Club World Cup will be a game-changer for the South African players wearing the famous Brazilian-inspired jerseys. They will face opponents with distinctive playing styles and strategies, propelling the team into uncharted territory. They will step onto the pitch against European powerhouse Borussia Dortmund and South American heavyweights Fluminense, and each match presents an invaluable opportunity for growth and development. Every match will serve as a test of skill and a rite of passage, transporting Sundowns from regional dominance to global contenders. With each opponent presenting a fresh challenge, the club has the chance to elevate its playing standards, an evolution that could define its legacy on the international stage. In their next two group matches, Sundowns will confront the blistering speed of Germany's Dortmund and the intricate ball control epitomised by Brazil's Fluminense.
IOL News
21-06-2025
- Business
- IOL News
As stinking-rich Mamelodi Sundowns become richer, implications for Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates profound
While Sundowns have been in the US, chairman Tlhopie Motsepe (with trophy) outlined ambitious plans to invest in local talent development and expand essential infrastructure. Photo: BackpagePix Image: BackpagePix Straight Talk Column by Herman Gibbs Mamelodi Sundowns will receive an impressive R174 million just for participating in the 2025 Fifa Club World Cup, as well as R36 million for each victory during the group stage. This substantial financial injection will enable Sundowns to easily maintain and enhance their stronghold in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), ensuring their ongoing dominance in domestic football. However, this development is rather ominous for the PSL's two glamour teams, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates. Both clubs boast a rich history and monumental fan-bases, often highlighted by the 'sold out' Soweto Derbies, where passion and rivalry ignite stadiums. Chiefs and Pirates have also enjoyed the thrill of several capacity crowds over the past two seasons. Until recently, Chiefs have not won a trophy in a decade, but they continue to attract lucrative sponsorships based on their pulling power, despite dwindling crowds. Yet, as Sundowns' dominance continues to grow, these storied franchises appear increasingly destined to remain in the shadows of their Chloorkop rivals. Sundowns' motto, 'The sky is the limit', reflects a commitment to transcend the traditional boundaries of sporting success. Their emblem – a hand poised with a finger pointing skyward – symbolises an aspiration that knows no limitations, whether rooted in historical performance or geographical challenges. The tragedy of the situation is that Chiefs and Pirates have shown no ambition to reclaim their lost glory, and will remain ensnared in the slipstream of Sundowns' relentless pursuit of excellence. There is no evidence that the 'Soweto Giants' will rise to challenge Masandawana or continue to watch from the shadows. While Sundowns have been in the United States, the club's chairman, Tlhopie Motsepe, outlined the Brazilians' ambitious plans to invest in local talent development and expand essential infrastructure. At the heart of this vision is the establishment of a world-class academy aimed at nurturing home-grown talent. Motsepe emphasised that the goal is to ensure the finest local players do not have to look overseas to join the ranks of prestigious European clubs. He spoke about an academy that stands toe-to-toe with Europe's elite institutions. He also highlighted the urgent need for robust infrastructure, notably the club's aspiration to build a stadium, noting the benefits of having a dedicated venue as a home ground. On the playing field, the Fifa Club World Cup will be a game-changer for the South African players wearing the famous Brazilian-inspired jerseys. They will face opponents with distinctive playing styles and strategies, propelling the team into uncharted territory. They will step onto the pitch against European powerhouse Borussia Dortmund and South American heavyweights Fluminense, and each match presents an invaluable opportunity for growth and development. Every match will serve as a test of skill and a rite of passage, transporting Sundowns from regional dominance to global contenders. With each opponent presenting a fresh challenge, the club has the chance to elevate its playing standards, an evolution that could define its legacy on the international stage. In their next two group matches, Sundowns will confront the blistering speed of Germany's Dortmund and the intricate ball control epitomised by Brazil's Fluminense.
The Star
10-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Whoop, whoop, roaring green-and-white hoops of Bloemfontein Celtic braced for PSL return
Herman Gibbs | Published 3 hours ago The heart of Free State's football fraternity is racing with anticipation as Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture Gayton McKenzie is on the cusp of completing formalities for the return of the defunct Bloemfontein Celtic, fondly known as Siwelele, to the Premier Soccer League (PSL). A consortium spearheaded by McKenzie is orchestrating the transition of the PSL franchise of beleaguered SuperSport United to Bloemfontein Celtic. According to sources familiar with the deal, only the funds have yet to change hands, but information about the agreement suggests an imminent announcement will be made at the end of the current season. McKenzie's commitment in this saga first came to light in February when he expressed a strong commitment to see the potential return of Bloemfontein Celtic to the PSL. At the time, McKenzie told Botha Msila, Celtic's dedicated No 1 fan, that Celtic would soon be back in the PSL. 'I gave him my absolute word that Siwelele is coming back,' said McKenzie, who further underscored his belief in the group's capability to restore the club to their former glory. 'Many tried and failed, but this group will not fail. Exciting times ahead.' The Free State-based club saw their top-flight status sold off amidst financial turmoil in August 2021. The then-owner Max Tshabalala made the heart-wrenching decision to sell the club's PSL status due to crippling financial difficulties. He sold to business mogul Shauwn Mkhize, popularly known as MamKhize, for R50 million. Following the acquisition, she rebranded the team as Royal AM, sparking an outcry among loyal Celtic supporters who have long yearned for the beloved Siwelele back in the elite league. It seems that McKenzie and his consortium were biding their time, and they struck when the franchise of the beleaguered SuperSport United became available. Despite these mounting reports, SuperSport United's current management remains cautious. Stan Matthews, the CEO of SuperSport United, has come forward to dismiss the speculation. 'Since 2019, there have been persistent rumours about the club being sold,' he stated. 'As far as I know, our main focus right now is to avoid relegation.' Media queries directed to SuperSport's chair, Khulu Sibiya and media officer, Brian Moshoeshoe, have gone unanswered. As speculation regarding the club's sale intensifies, the looming question remains: will SuperSport United finish the season strong enough to avert the playoffs and relegation, and subsequently, will these talks dissipate? For now, the club's immediate fate lies in the next three games, crucial fixtures against Stellenbosch FC (May 17 away), Orlando Pirates (May 20 home) and Richards Bay (May 24 home) that will determine whether the sale will continue. As discussions surrounding investment and club management continue, the prospect of revitalising Bloemfontein Celtic has ignited excitement across the region. Fans, who have kept the club's spirit alive through unwavering support, await further updates with bated breath. The journey ahead may be fraught with challenges, but the vision of seeing Siwelele return to the PSL again is beginning to feel tangible. Over time, the loyalty of Celtic's fans has never waned, and many have continued to rally for the return of the club that holds a special place in the hearts of the local community. The coming weeks will be critical for SuperSport United's survival in the league and the prospective return of Celtic's roaring green-and-white hoops to the South African football landscape.
