The Journey of Burundi's national football team amidst years of chaos and turmoil
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There were sensations of sorts on and off the pitch in the thrilling Nedbank Cup quarterfinal between Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila and SuperSport United last Friday in Thohoyandou.
The National First Division side turned around a 0-2 deficit against their illustrious Premier Soccer League opponents, sealing a 3-2 victory in extra time. This booked their spot in the semifinals against another Limpopo side in the form of Marumo Gallants.
However, coach Lucky Nelukau and his assistants' attire on the sidelines was probably more memorable. The crew was kitted out in full military attire that must have confused spectators in the stands and viewers at home.
The Journey of Burundi's national football team amidst years of chaos and turmoil
FootballAsked by the Citizen as to why he was dressed that way, Nelukau said:
“You know I had a brother, who all of you should know, Arnold Mudau… He passed away a few weeks ago. This is for him. I was close, close, close to him. I know he's still with me, he's still telling me I'm going to win the final.
"This cup I am playing for him. He was always dressed like this. If you drive past Louis Trichardt you will pass a house in Tshakhuma (painted) in camouflage like this.”
According to TimesLIVE, Arnold “Soldier Lion of Judah” Mudau was a prominent and apparently controversial businessman and restaurant and bar owner in Tshakuma, known for his trademark military attire, who reportedly died in a car crash last month.
TTM kept hope alive of winning the Nedbank with a courageous and sensational come from behind victory against SuperSport United in Thohoyandou, Limpopo.
Jesse Donn and Gampani Lungi put the visitors into a comfortable 2-0 lead, before Tumi Ngwepe, Naeem Amoojee and Tumelo Makha struck back for the home side, completing an unlikely National First Division giant-killing of a Premier Soccer League Team.