Chippa United coach Kwanele Kopo recently shared his emotional experience of being unexpectedly retrenched from SuperSport United, where he had dedicated 21 years of his career.
During his time with the club, Kopo was instrumental in identifying and nurturing talent, playing a key role in establishing SuperSport United’s youth academy. His departure, which came as part of a restructuring effort, was a shock for the long-serving coach who had envisioned his future with the club.
Kopo’s move to Chippa United marked his first head coaching role in South Africa’s top-flight football league, but his departure from SuperSport in 2022 left a lasting impact. He later spent a year at Pretoria Callies in the Motsepe Foundation Championship before accepting the new challenge.
In reflecting on his exit, Kopo said, “I didn’t leave SuperSport; SuperSport left me. They were restructuring, and I was among those let go.” He added that the decision was particularly painful, considering his years of service and his role in founding the club’s academy.
Kopo Reflects on Emotional Reunion with SuperSport
“I never thought I’d find myself in this position, but in football, you learn to adapt,” said Kwanele Kopo, reflecting on the unexpected path his career has taken. Facing his former club, SuperSport United, next week will be an emotional moment for Kopo and his assistant coach, Thabo September, who also left SuperSport in January to join Chippa United.
Chippa United, based in the Eastern Cape, will host SuperSport on Wednesday, November 26, at 5:30 pm UTC.
KOPO: ‘IT’S EMOTIONAL TO FACE SUPERSPORT’
“Our next game is against SuperSport United, and it will always be emotional for both Thabo and me,” Kopo shared. “But I believe God has opened a new door for us here. When one door closes, another opens, and we’re very grateful to the Mpengesi family and the chairman for giving us this chance at Chippa United.”
He continued, “Now, it’s on us and the players to step up and show what we’re capable of.”
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