Following Orlando Pirates co-coach Mandla Ncikazi’s explosive post-match comments in Tanzania, slamming the professionalism and treatment of his side by hosts Simba SC, club CEO Barbara Gonzalez has called these false and says Ncikazi is trying to protect his job by deflecting.

The Soweto giants suffered a 1-0 loss in Tanzania on Sunday courtesy of a dubious penalty decision despite VAR said to be in operation.

After the game, Ncikazi hit out at the treatment his side faced saying they were treated like animals and that Simba and everyone associated with the trip should be ashamed.

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Ncikazi’s comments have quickly gained attention in South Africa and abroad, with many hailing the coach for calling out what has been a long-standing issue in Africa football.

However, Simba CEO Gonzalez had a different interpretation of the situation when she told Thabiso Mosia on MetroFM on Monday evening that she will lodge a complaint.

“Defamatory statements that are unfounded are not accepted and I will lodge a complaint with the relevant authorities because this is false and not right. We are hospitable and treat people with a lot of respect,” said Gonzalez.

“Sometimes people like to play victim and will say anything to protect their jobs. I’ve been reading what’s happening in SA with the technical team at Pirates and I know they’re under pressure.

“Those comments were nasty and should not be taken lightly because now we have a fear for our lives when we come to South Africa. These comments are tarnishing our image and the relationship with South Africa.

“VAR was working, we even tested it before the game. We had a trial run in the week. It’s up to the ref to decide if he goes to the VAR or not.”

With Pirates set to host Simba in the return leg, more is likely to come from this ever-intensifying fixture with a spot in the semi-finals of the competition up for grabs on Sunday at the Orlando Stadium.