Mamelodi Sundowns and the popular beer brand Carling Black Label have joined hands as partners for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup that will be staged in the US in June.
Black Label Beer, who were officially named the South African beer sponsor of the newly expanded 32-team global tournament, announced their partnership with the reigning Betway Premiership champions on Tuesday in Melrose Arch.
“Carling Black Label has always been more than a beer. It’s a Champion Beer for Champions,” said Kerryn Greenleaf, Carling Black Label brand director.
Giving power to the fans
“Mamelodi Sundowns are representing Africa at the highest level. And with the Score Predictor, we’re giving fans the power to join them on that journey,” Greenleaf said.
Sundowns had club chairman Tlhopie Motsepe, senior coach Steve Komphela, and former players Sibusiso Vilakazi and Hlompho Kekana present. Representing the players were veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango and defender Mothobi Mvala.
“This partnership is a meeting of champions. Grounded in aligned values, backed by performance, and driven by the people. Carling Black Label understands the heartbeat of South African football.
“They’ve [Black Label] stood by fans and supporters for decades. And now they’re standing with Mamelodi Sundowns as we take African excellence to the world. We are proud to have an award-winning brand backing us on this journey.”
Second appearance
Sundowns have been drawn against German Bundesliga outfit Borussia Dortmund, Fluminense FC of Brazil, and Korean side Ulsan HD in Group F, in what will be their second appearance at the Club World Cup.
The Brazilians will be hoping to head into the global showpiece as the African champions with the second continental star etched on top of their badge.
They face Pyramids in the second leg of the CAF Champions League final in Cairo on Sunday evening.
Sundowns do, however, head into the encounter with a slight disadvantage. They have conceded in the last minute to end their first leg tie 1-1 in Loftus last Saturday.
