Ubuntu-Botho in Action

The story of the Mamelodi Sundown’s fan who saved the life of the Esperance supporter spread quickly throughout the football community, becoming a powerful symbol of what football can represent beyond the scorelines. The act of kindness, courage, and unity transcended the rivalry, showing the world that football is more than just a game, it is a universal language that connects us all.

Mamelodi Sundowns’ slogan is not just words, it’s a call to action. This fan’s quick thinking and selflessness are a perfect example of how the philosophy of Ubuntu-Botho extends far beyond the world of football. It’s a reminder that, like the Sundowns team, we are all part of a more prominent family, one that supports and uplifts each other in times of need.

Siboniso Masango, the hero who saved the life of an Esperance fan on, Tuesday, 01 April 2025 “, said the guy thought he was trying to kill him.

“I ran over and immediately tried to help the guy. He actually thought I wasn’t there to help, he thought I was there to push him off.
As I grabbed his forearm, he started pleading with me, saying, ‘Please don’t do it, I have three kids.”

“He kept saying that, and I had to reassure him that, ‘No, I’m not going to let you go, I’m here to help you'”, Click here to watch

Mamelodi Sundown’s Statement

“We are confident that the investigation will identify the circumstances that gave rise to the unruly behaviour.

However, in accordance with our African culture of compassion and empathy (our African culture of Ubuntu) we are required to apologize to Espérance de Tunis and its supporters as the unruly behavior took place at our home stadium, despite the videos and facts indicating that the Sundown’s supporters did not initiate the unruly behavior.”