Former Orlando Pirates winger Lebohang Mokoena has criticised Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen for his confrontation with a supporter following Amakhosi’s Nedbank Cup defeat to Stellenbosch FC.
The 31-year-old goalkeeper was involved in an altercation with a fan after Chiefs were knocked out of the competition following a 2-1 loss on Wednesday evening.
Ugly scenes unfolded after the final whistle, with several videos circulating on social media showing clashes involving Chiefs supporters both inside and outside the stadium.
In one widely shared clip, Petersen is seen hugging a young supporter before another fan appears to pour water over him from the stands.
The visibly angered goalkeeper then confronted the individual and attempted to retaliate before being restrained by officials and fellow supporters, eventually being escorted back towards the pitchside area.
Reacting to the incident, Mokoena felt Petersen should have handled the situation better, given his experience as a professional footballer.
“I think he could have handled it a bit better because as professional players we are always insulted, especially when going to take a corner kick,” Mokoena told Soccer Beat.
“I experienced it whether it came from my own fans or opposition supporters. It’s something we learn to deal with as professionals, and that’s why we are called professional players.”
Petersen confronts fan after Chiefs defeat
Mokoena added that players carry a responsibility when wearing their club’s colours.
“We have to handle criticism in a different manner, especially when wearing the club’s kit. It’s not a good example, particularly to the youngsters who are watching. I don’t condone what the fan did, but it came out of frustration. It’s not like he hit him with a brick.”
The former Pirates star also downplayed the severity of the incident, joking about the reaction to the water being thrown.
“He poured water on him. When he (Petersen) gets into the changing room, he’s probably going to do an ice bath, which is even colder,” Mokoena laughed.
“Maybe it was hot on the field and the fan was just trying to cool him off, but Brandon took it personally.”
Mokoena concluded by advising Petersen to remain calm and composed despite the disappointment of their Nedbank Cup exit.