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Tension over ticketing for Sundowns fans ahead of their crucial CAF Champions League match at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on Saturday.
Mamelodi Sundowns are gearing up for what promises to be an electrifying first leg of their CAF Champions League quarterfinal against Young Africans in Tanzania this Saturday.
However, the buzz of the upcoming match has been overshadowed by a critical issue that has surfaced regarding ticketing and stadium access for Sundowns' fans, sparking a standoff that could dampen spirits ahead of this eagerly anticipated clash.
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According to sources close to the situation, there has been a sudden and controversial change in the ticketing policy for the match, leading to confusion and frustration among Mamelodi Sundowns supporters planning to make the trip to Tanzania.
Despite previous assurances, the latest developments suggest that there might be unexpected barriers to entry for the visiting fans.
The Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) has sought to reassure all parties involved, stating in a letter to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) that the match between Young Africans and Mamelodi Sundowns will be conducted under strict adherence to laid-down regulations and procedures for stadium access.
"We are writing in respect of your communication today regarding Security Concerns in Tanzania," the letter signed by TFF General Secretary Kidao Wilfred reads.
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Moreover, the TFF's correspondence has gone further to guarantee security for the Mamelodi Sundowns team, match officials, traveling supporters, and local fans intending to attend the game.
"This guarantee also covers match officials, traveling Sundowns FC supporters as well as fans residing in Tanzania who want to attend the match," the letter elaborates, aiming to dispel any concerns over the safety and accessibility of the event.
Despite these assurances, the sudden shift in ticketing policy has left many Sundowns supporters in limbo, with several of them expressing their displeasure and anxiety over the potential of being barred from supporting their team in such a crucial match.
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A fan representative, speaking on condition of anonymity, conveyed the collective frustration.
"We were looking forward to cheering our team on foreign soil, but this unexpected hurdle is disheartening. Football is about unity and support, and we hope for a swift resolution that allows us to be there for our team," the fan told Pulse Sports.
The historical context of matches between Mamelodi Sundowns and Young Africans adds another layer of intensity to the unfolding drama.
Their previous encounters in the Champions League have been closely contested affairs, with Sundowns narrowly edging Yanga in their last meeting in 2001.
Sundowns secured victory in the first-ever eight-club African Football League last year and are keenly aiming to claim the Champions League title for their trophy collection.
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