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FIFA president reacts to his first Soweto Derby after Bucs' win

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has given his review after attending his first Soweto Derby on the weekend, which was won by Orlando Pirates. 

On Saturday, the 53-year-old was on the first of a two-day visit to South African when he attended one of the biggest encounters in the country, afterwards describing it as "an incredible experience".

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Infantino watched on as a 20th-minute strike by Evidence Makgopa was enough to hand Pirates a 1-0 win victory, as well as bragging rights, over long-time rivals Kaizer Chiefs. 

"This Soweto Derby: it was a first for me," the FIFA chief said after the match, per the global football organisation's official website.

"A full house, incredible crowd. I had forgotten how emotional this stadium is, but also in the city.

"I mean, I was seeing this morning, when I arrived, everyone was looking forward to this game.

"So, it's a great game, great atmosphere, great passion, incredible, incredible fans."

The Swiss-Italian was also in attendance at the second leg of the first-ever African Football League final at Loftus Versfeld on Sunday, which was won by South Africa's Mamelodi Sundowns after they beat Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca by two goals to nil (3-2 on aggregate).

"The African Football League is a great event," Infantino said on Sunday. 

"Football has to become much more global than what it is, and football, of course, unites the world. For this, we are here."

He also took to social media to congratulate Masandawana on their triumph. 

"Congratulations Mamelodi Sundowns on winning the inaugural edition of the African Football League (AFL)," he wrote. 

"Thank you Wydad AC for playing an excellent tournament and a great final match in front of such passionate fans who have helped make this a special competition. 

"Many thanks to all participating teams, the fans and everyone involved with this tournament your contribution has been invaluable and all of you are winners because, today, African football won. 

"AFL 2023 has set a standard and through our beautiful sport, we will continue to promote sustained development, accessibility, and inclusivity across this great continent."

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