Galatasaray stars Didier Drogba and Emmanuel Eboue who displayed their tributes to Nelson Mandela following their 2-0 win against SB Elagizspor last Friday, will likely face disciplinary action by the Turkish Football Federation.
Both Ivorians removed their shirts after the match – Drogba to reveal an under shirt that read “Thank You Madiba”; while Eboue also honoured the anti-apartheid hero with a t-shirt that said “Rest in Peace Nelson Mandela”.
However, the disciplinary committee of the Turkish Football Federation, that forbids players from displaying political messages during football matches, have summoned the Ivorians to mete out some form of retrospective action to the pair.
Drogba took it to Facebook to voice his support for the former South African president:
“Nelson Mandela did not only impact Africa, but also the rest of the world. This is a great loss to humanity, because he was a man who refused to abandon the struggle in the face of suffering and was able to change mentalities across the globe. I want to offer my condolences to his family and loved ones and to the entire South African people.”
He also said he has no regrets over his decision to pay tribute to the former South Africa president.
“If I had to I would do it again and again. Not because of political beliefs, but because this man inspired me, a country, a continent and the world! Thanks again Madiba,” Drogba commented on his official Instagram account.
The decision from the officials to sanction the pair drew the ire of social media.