Mamelodi Sundowns player reveals that his family does not even support his team! | OneFootball

Mamelodi Sundowns player reveals that his family does not even support his team! | OneFootball

In partnership with

Yahoo sports
Icon: Foot Africa

Foot Africa

·9 November 2025

Mamelodi Sundowns player reveals that his family does not even support his team!

Article image:Mamelodi Sundowns player reveals that his family does not even support his team!

Father and mother have other trends in football, but it's a surprise!

Article image:Mamelodi Sundowns player reveals that his family does not even support his team!

Mamelodi Sundowns player reveals that his family does not even support his team!


OneFootball Videos


Mamelodi Sun Downs player Neo Maema reveals the teams his parents support, even though he is a Mamelodi Sun Downs player, his father and mother do not support the team their son actually plays for.

A family's footballing rivalry is at the heart of a potential transfer saga for midfielder Neo Maema. Since his move to Kabo Yellow in 2021, Maema has carved out a reputation as a creative and effective playmaker, contributing 13 goals and 14 assists in 120 appearances. Despite this impressive form, he found himself facing stiff competition for the attacking midfield role, a situation that soon attracted the attention of South Africa's two biggest clubs: Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.

The player's personal history, however, adds a compelling layer to the drama. Maema's loyalties are intrinsically tied to a household divided.

“When I was growing up, my mom was and still is a big Pirates fan,” Maema revealed. “She has always supported me whenever I am but has made it clear that whenever I play against Pirates, I must just know that she will choose Pirates but she will watch her son.”

His paternal influence, however, guided his own childhood allegiance. “My father is a Kaizer Chiefs fan and we grew up choosing my father’s side. It is not a team that I hate – I don’t hate the team (Pirates), I’ve just never imagined myself playing for them, and one day if they come and offer me a contract, then I will say okay, let me try,” the 29-year-old added.

View publisher imprint