The late Nelson Mandela, who passed away Thursday at age 95, will be honored at all nine Premier League matches on Saturday with a minute of applause.
The applause for Mandela, a fan of the sport who was instrumental in bringing the World Cup to South Africa, will also be heard at Championship and FA Cup second-round matches.
Players around the Premier League and abroad reacted to Mandela’s passing, including South African star Steven Pienaar:
Still can’t believe it MADIBA is gone
— Steven Pienaar (@therealstevenpi) December 5, 2013
Today, I am very saddened. Nelson Mandela was one of the most influential people in my life. pic.twitter.com/zzixsqm1Af
— Pelé (@Pele) December 5, 2013
He was my hero, my friend, and also a companion to me in our fight for the people and for world peace.
— Pelé (@Pele) December 5, 2013
Let us all continue his legacy with purpose and passion.
— Pelé (@Pele) December 5, 2013
RIP Nelson Mandela. What a strong and courageous man! Forever in our hearts!
— Dean Furman (@de4no22) December 5, 2013
Rest in Peace Tata. You will be missed but never forgotten. My tribute letter to you http://t.co/7y0j2oiK6i #Madiba
— Lucas Radebe (@LucasRadebe) December 6, 2013
The U.S. Soccer family mourns the loss of Nelson Mandela, one of the most inspirational leaders of our time. pic.twitter.com/uZ76oO4G7p
— U.S. Soccer (@ussoccer) December 6, 2013
An inspiration to all of us. RIP Nelson Mandela. Thank you for everything you have done! pic.twitter.com/XJnb4xG4L0
— Robin van Persie (@Persie_Official) December 6, 2013
Thankful Madiba for your legacy and your example. You"ll always stay with us. pic.twitter.com/IA72uYB6N4
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) December 5, 2013
Deepest respect to a man who fought and wrote world history defending his people and his legacy that it will last for centuries. Thx Madiba
— Radamel Falcao (@FALCAO) December 5, 2013