INLSA
Manchester United supporters turned Durbans Moses Mabhida Stadium red last night, overpowering the sprinkling of AmaZulu fans. Thousands donned their red shirts and scarves while others went a notch higher, sporting face paint and horns in support of the Red Devils. Picture: Sibonelo Ngcobo
Manchester United supporters turned out in their thousands for the friendly soccer match against AmaZulu last night, turning the stands at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium into a sea of red.
The match finished with the score 1-0 to the English visitors after Frederico Macheda’s first-half goal which had the crowd on their feet.
Traffic before the match was backed up on roads leading to the |stadium as metro police directed |motorists.
Supporters were treated to thumping music by a DJ while they watched the players warm up.
A song was sung before kick-off in honour of former president Nelson Mandela’s 94th birthday yesterday .
Education MEC Senzo Mchunu, Premier Zweli Mkhize, eThekwini mayor James Nxumalo and Public |Enterprises Minister Malusi Gigaba, former police commissioner Bheki Cele, council Speaker Logie Naidoo and City Manager Sibusiso Sithole were among the enthusiastic VIPS who attended the match.
Home side AmaZulu wore their new blue and white kit, while United had on their traditional red and white shirts.
The Red Devils’ fans stuck to red with their supporters’ gear, while AmaZulu supporters opted for their side’s usual green and white shirts, with some painting their faces green.
United supporters painted their faces with the team’s logo, while some sported red devil horns, team scarves and glowing glasses to show their support.
Manchester United coach Sir Alex Ferguson said he was satisfied with the result. “AmaZulu showed a lot of heart. It was a privilege to sing to Mandela and it was a special day,” he said.
AmaZulu coach Roger Palmgren said he thought it had been a good match, despite their being underdogs to one of the world’s most famous teams.
Nxumalo thanked both teams for playing in Durban and said he hoped the visitors would return next year.
Although AmaZulu were outplayed, their fans kept their sense humour.
“It is all about the spirit of the game, said supporter Veli Mdletshe.
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Gary Bailey surprised fans when he mingled with the crowd and they quickly queued for photographs and his autograph.
Manchester United are touring the country as part of the team’s off-season preparations.
Organisers said that 51 000 tickets had been sold for last night’s match, the visitors first of the tour.
Manchester United face Premier Soccer League side Ajax at the Cape Town Stadium at 3pm on Saturday.
