“Itumeleng Khune & Sphelele Criticized for Attending Orlando Pirates Game”
Former Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Itumeleng “Itu” Khune and his wife, Sphelele, have come under fire after attending a Nedbank Cup match where Orlando Pirates defeated Baroka FC 3-1. Their presence at the game, combined with their choice of black outfits, led to speculation that they were supporting Kaizer Chiefs’ arch-rivals.
Social Media Uproar
Khune and Sphelele shared photos from their experience at the Soweto Stadium over the weekend, sparking mixed reactions from fans. Given Khune’s two-decade-long association with Kaizer Chiefs, his presence at a Pirates match raised eyebrows among Amakhosi supporters.
Many fans took to Instagram to question Khune’s allegiance. One user asked, “Are you jumping ship, Itu?” while others accused him of betraying Kaizer Chiefs. In response, Khune reassured fans of his loyalty, commenting, “Amakhosi 4 Life.”
Sphelele also fueled discussions by teasing fans with her post, captioning it, “You can tell which team I was supporting.” However, she later clarified that she was merely appreciating good football, stating, “They play good football.” Despite their lighthearted approach, some Kaizer Chiefs fans were not amused.
Khune’s Legacy with Kaizer Chiefs
Itumeleng Khune’s history with Kaizer Chiefs runs deep. He joined the club’s youth academy in 1999 and made his professional debut in 2004. Over the years, he built a reputation as one of South Africa’s top goalkeepers, serving as the club’s captain and leading them to numerous victories.
Despite his contributions, Khune’s contract with Kaizer Chiefs was not renewed for the 2024/2025 season, leading to speculation about his retirement at the age of 37. While he has not made an official announcement, many believe he has quietly stepped away from professional soccer.
In recognition of his long service, Kaizer Chiefs honored him last year, marking 25 years of dedication to the club. This tribute was a testament to his impact on South African football.
Life Beyond Soccer
Since stepping away from Kaizer Chiefs, Khune has been focusing on business ventures, including investments in a sports betting agency. His involvement in the sports industry may have influenced his decision to attend the Orlando Pirates match.
Despite the controversy, Khune has consistently expressed his unwavering support for Kaizer Chiefs. His recent social media response reaffirming his commitment to the club further reassures fans of his loyalty.
The Fine Line Between Support and Spectatorship
For former players, attending matches involving rival teams can be a tricky situation. While it is common for retired athletes to appreciate good football, their presence at certain matches can sometimes lead to misunderstandings.
The backlash against Khune and Sphelele highlights the passion South African fans have for their teams. For many supporters, loyalty is everything, and any perceived deviation can result in criticism. However, Khune’s clarification that he remains dedicated to Kaizer Chiefs should help ease tensions.
Looking Ahead
Despite the recent uproar, Itumeleng Khune appears to be enjoying life beyond the soccer pitch. His legacy at Kaizer Chiefs remains intact, and his reassurance of loyalty should silence critics. For now, he continues to be an influential figure in South African football, whether as a player, entrepreneur, or fan of the sport.
