North West MEC tears into USA for ‘tarnishing our World Cup legacy’

North West Public Works MEC, Madoda Sambatha, tore into the United States of America and accused it of wanting to ‘tarnish our World Cup legacy’.

“These revelations being made now are nothing but the work of dark forces with sinister motives,” said Sambatha.

“It is the work of disgruntled people who did not want the tournament held in Africa.”

Speaking at the launch of the Bokone Bophirima Maize Triangle Challenge, Sambatha accused the United States of ‘sinister behaviour’ and of having a hidden agenda’ in their allegations that South Africa had bribed various Fifa officials to win the hosting rights for the 2010 World Cup

“The World Cup 2010 was held in South Africa, whether there was a bribe or not. [The fact that] it was here and that it was one of the most successful wasn’t fraud. Americans cannot erase that.

“We have every right to bid [to host the World Cup] like any other country, including America, as we’re also a member of Fifa. Those who are investigating will do so and take those responsible [for fraud or bribery] to court and that is none of our business.

“We have had a successful relationship with [Sepp] Blatter [as] one of the most progressive football forces in the world. This was the most successful World Cup ever, and that memory will never be erased by anyone or organisation.”

Meanwhile, Township Rollers football club chairperson Walter Kgabung said they were really honoured to have been invited to participate in a tournament of this magnitude.

“I can promise you, Township Rollers will do their best to ensure their name is the first one to be engraved on this inaugural cup,” said Kgabung.

Aces’ Gordon Masondo said they were in it to win it, “All the other teams participating in the cup will eat humble pie, and as for Township Rollers, they will certainly roll.”

Platinum Stars’ Tebogo Mochadibane appealed to citizens of the North West to come to the stadium and support their team.

“It pains the boys to play such beautiful football in an empty stadium,” Mochadibane said.

“As for the destiny of the inaugural cup, we’re not going to debate that one. The trophy is destined to remain in the North West.”