The Turbulent World of Football: A Tale of Two Coaches - Cape Town Today
Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

The Turbulent World of Football: A Tale of Two Coaches

3 mins read
football coaches

A clash of football giants occurred in South Africa between Rhulani Mokwena, coach of Mamelodi Sundowns and Owen Ramovic, coach of Galaxy FC. The issue erupted after allegations of abusive language and lack of respect, causing controversy. Ramovic emphasized the importance of keeping private discussions confidential and maintaining professionalism within the football fraternity. Despite the heated dispute, the coaches’ commitment to their teams remained steadfast, highlighting the intense passion and rivalries that often surround the sport.

The Turbulent World of Football: A Tale of Two Coaches

In the passionate and talent-filled realm of football, there is no shortage of high-spirited emotions and fierce rivalries. A recent episode bearing witness to this statement played out in the South African football scene, causing quite a stir. The incident involved Rhulani Mokwena, the celebrated coach of Mamelodi Sundowns, and Owen Ramovic, a well-known and respected German coach of Galaxy FC. The two football giants were embroiled in an intense clash, sparked by allegations of abusive language and lack of respect.

The Underlying Tensions and Rivalries

In the passionate and talent-filled realm of football, there is no shortage of high-spirited emotions and fierce rivalries. A recent episode bearing witness to this statement played out in the South African football scene, causing quite a stir. The incident involved Rhulani Mokwena, the celebrated coach of Mamelodi Sundowns, and Owen Ramovic, a well-known and respected German coach of Galaxy FC. The two football giants were embroiled in an intense clash, sparked by allegations of abusive language and lack of respect.

Owen Ramovic, a seasoned coach known for his steady dedication towards his team, shared his unease caused by his encounter with Mokwena. This event unfolded after the Carling Knockout Cup match, where Galaxy FC outshined Mamelodi Sundowns, thus registering an unforgettable victory for Ramovic.

The Clash of The Coaches

The conflict emerged when Mokwena purportedly made their private conversation public, fuelling an evolving controversy. Ramovic, admired for his straightforwardness, didn’t shy away from addressing this issue head-on. He underscored the necessity to keep personal discussions confidential, hinting at an implicit code of conduct within the football fraternity. The German coach firmly stated that private exchanges should not be used as ammunition in the public realm to gain some brownie points.

Ramovic’s disappointment stemmed from an incident on the 13th of November, where he felt that Mokwena was disrespectful towards him, his squad, and the club. Ramovic, as any coach would, stood up for his team, declaring that he wouldn’t tolerate anyone demeaning them.

Confrontation Escalates

Later on, on December 29th, while travelling to Mbombela, Ramovic bumped into Khuliso Mudau, a player from Sundowns. In a playful banter, Mudau asked Ramovic when he intended to acquire him, to which Ramovic jokingly replied that Mudau was “too pricey.” However, the conversation took a serious tone when Mudau questioned why Ramovic was at loggerheads with his coach, Mokwena. Ramovic reaffirmed his position, stating that his aim wasn’t to quarrel but to shield his players from any form of disrespect. He encouraged Mudau to advise Mokwena to stop belittling his colleagues and their work.

The situation took a turn for the worst when Mokwena rang up Ramovic during his bus journey towards Mbombela. Ramovic recounted the unpleasant ten-minute conversation where he alleged Mokwena used harsh language, questioned his authority to critique, and warned him about being in ‘his’ country. Despite Mokwena’s alleged tirade, Ramovic stood his ground, stating he didn’t care about Mokwena’s lineage before Mokwena abruptly terminated the call.

Lessons From The Conflict

This occurrence is a glaring example of intense passions and rivalries that are often hidden beneath the seemingly glitzy exterior of football. Respect for fellow professionals, their work, and upholding professional etiquette are crucial aspects of the game. This conflict narrative sheds light on the often-ignored aspects of football, where the intense devotion to the sport sometimes blurs the boundaries of respect and professionalism. Even amid heated disputes and allegations, the spirit of the sport remains unfazed and the commitment of these coaches to their teams continues to be steadfast, regardless of any controversy.

What caused the clash between Rhulani Mokwena and Owen Ramovic?

The clash between Rhulani Mokwena and Owen Ramovic was sparked by allegations of abusive language and lack of respect.

What did Ramovic emphasize regarding private discussions in football?

Ramovic emphasized the importance of keeping private discussions confidential and maintaining professionalism within the football fraternity.

Did the coaches’ commitment to their teams waver during the clash?

No, despite the heated dispute, the coaches’ commitment to their teams remained steadfast.

What did Ramovic say about Mokwena belittling his colleagues and their work?

Ramovic encouraged Khuliso Mudau to advise Mokwena to stop belittling his colleagues and their work.

What is the lesson to be learned from this conflict?

Respect for fellow professionals, their work, and upholding professional etiquette are crucial aspects of the game.

How does this conflict shed light on the often-ignored aspects of football?

This conflict narrative sheds light on the often-ignored aspects of football, where the intense devotion to the sport sometimes blurs the boundaries of respect and professionalism.

Previous Story

The Cultural and Creative Industry Awards: A Platform for South African Artistry

Next Story

The Inspiring Journey of Wendy Williams: Rising Above Cognitive Health Challenges

Latest from Blog

The Rise of Vaping Among South African Teenagers

Vaping is quickly becoming a popular habit among South African teenagers, drawn by sweet fruity flavors, flashy packaging, and the buzz on social media. Many teens vape to fit in with friends, feel cool and rebellious, or to escape stress and anxiety. However, what seems like harmless fun can quickly turn into addiction, affecting their health and wellbeing. Despite the risks, vaping is often misunderstood, making it harder for families and schools to stop this growing trend. It’s a serious challenge that needs everyone—parents, teachers, and leaders—to work together to protect young people’s futures.

South African Agriculture and the Changing Winds of Trade

Since 2000, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) has helped South African farmers sell fruits like avocados, wine, and citrus to the United States without paying extra taxes. This chance boosted farming communities, especially small farmers and women, by opening up new markets and encouraging growth. But recent U.S. tariffs threaten these gains, making it harder for farmers to compete and putting many livelihoods at risk. Still, South African farmers remain strong and hopeful, working hard to face these new challenges and keep their communities alive.

Trapped Abroad: Ashley Oosthuizen’s Journey Through Thailand’s Legal Labyrinth

Ashley Oosthuizen, a young South African woman, went to Thailand chasing her dreams but ended up trapped in a nightmare. After unknowingly signing for a package with illegal drugs, she was arrested and sentenced to over 13 years in prison, despite being innocent. Her mother moved to Thailand to fight for her, sharing Ashley’s story with the world and gaining support. Even when the real criminal confessed, the Thai courts kept Ashley behind bars. Her story is a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change and the risks travelers face in foreign countries.

Shadows Along the Hennops: Three SAPS Officers Vanish and a River Gives Up Its Secrets

In April 2025, three South African police officers disappeared during a trip and were later found dead near the Hennops River, along with two others. Their white car vanished into the river’s dark, swirling waters, hiding clues and sparking a deep mystery. Families and the public mourned, demanding answers amid fears of foul play. The quiet river, once peaceful, now holds heavy secrets and reminds the nation of the dangers police face and the urgent need for justice.

Cape Town’s Boatbuilding: Crafting a Legacy on the Waterfront

Cape Town’s boatbuilding industry is a shining example of skill and tradition mixed with new technology. It creates beautiful, strong boats that are loved worldwide and supports thousands of jobs in the city. But now, new tariffs on exports, especially to the US, threaten this important work and the people who depend on it. Despite these challenges, boatbuilders, city leaders, and innovators are coming together to protect this proud craft. Their passion and teamwork fuel hope that Cape Town’s boatbuilding legacy will sail on strong into the future.