Orlando Pirates superfan, Miracle Ebubechi Michael, better known as Mimi or Anoda Mirakle, has become the centre of an wonderful display of ubuntu.
A crowdfunding campaign raised more than R40,000 to bring her to Johannesburg. She will get to watch the Soweto Derby on Saturday 31 October after it was sold out in eight hours last week.
MIRACALE UBURECHI IN MZANSI TO WATCH ORLANDO PIRATES LIVE IN THE SOWETO DERBY
According to reports, even football fans of Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns also contributed.
The crowdfunding initiative was launched to cover her journey from Nigeria to Johannesburg. It has turned what might have remained a distant dream into a real possibility.
The Orlando Pirates Supporters Forum commited itself behind the initiative. The Zodwa Khoza Foundation has offered to cover accommodation for Mimi and her partner during their stay in South Africa.
Mimi’s visit is expected to extend beyond the highly anticipated clash between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium.
Organisers have reportedly offered more. An itinerary will give her an opportunity to experience some of South Africa’s cultural landmarks. She will be escorted visit to Vilakazi Street in Soweto.
A formal visit to the Premier Soccer League offices is also part of the planned programme.
MIMI’S BOLD PROMISE IF KAIZER CHIEFS WIN
However, Mimi has added another layer of intrigue to her eagerly anticipated visit.
In the spirit of the banter that makes the Soweto Derby one of African football’s most entertaining rivalries, the Nigerian supporter has made a bold promise should Kaizer Chiefs emerge victorious.
“If Kaizer Chiefs beat Pirates in the Soweto Derby, I will walk all the way back to Nigeria on foot!” she declared in a viral social media video.
More than R40,000 has been raised, accommodation support has been offered, and a Nigerian football fan is preparing to experience a derby she has long wanted to witness in person.
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