- South African football has been rocked by the death of a second division player who collapsed on the pitch
- Durban City Football Club confirmed that Sinamandla Zondi died on his way to the hospital after collapsing
- The Premier Soccer League will release a statement once all protocols surrounding his death are observed
South African football was thrown into mourning last night after a second division player passed away after collapsing during a league match.
During the Motsepe Foundation Championship match on Tuesday evening, Durban FC faced off against Milford FC at the Chatsworth Stadium.
The game was halted shortly after the start of the second half "because of factors outside our control," with Milford leading 1-0 courtesy of Siphosethu Ndlabi’s goal.
As reported by Far Post, it wasn’t clear exactly when he fell unconscious, but he passed away before reaching the hospital. The game had to be halted once this information reached the team officials.
The team leads the table in the second division league and is targeting promotion to the Premier Soccer League next year.
Durban City confirms player's passing
The club issued an official statement confirming that Sinamandla Zondi, aged 22, has sadly passed away. They also offered a heartfelt tribute to the promising footballer, acknowledging his contributions throughout the season.
“We deeply regret to announce the departure of Sinamandula Zondi known as Sgora, a cherished part of the Durban City family," the statement says.
Sinamanda was not just a gifted football player; he was also a cherished teammate, a loyal friend, a supportive brother, a devoted son, and an inspiration to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Our deepest sympathies and thoughts go out to his family, friends, teammates, coaches, and all those impacted by this heartbreaking event.
We will keep supporting those near to him throughout this challenging period.
Audiences have inundated the comment section to bid farewell and show their final respects to the late footballer.
@sinelisolindani replied:
Eish, such talent just two weeks ago. I was applauding your abilities Rest in Peace, Nondaba 💔
@YSilwane replied:
It's astounding that up to this point, neither our Minister of Sports Arts and Culture @GaytonMcK nor the PSL have released any statements about this incident. Remarkably, not a single political party has commented either: @BhenguMahlengi @Sinawo_Thambo @NhlamuloNdhlela @FloydShivambu.
@Thulani_Mich replied:
He began the song that was playing earlier on music. What occurred? Did he collapse or what?
@donmelaniniare replied:
Very sad news! We've lost a promising talent far too soon. May he find peace ✝️ My condolences go out to all those who knew him—his community, teammates, and loved ones.
@services9613 replied:
He passed away bravely like a soldier 👏 May he find peace in eternity, and my thoughts go out to the Zondi family, Durban City Football Club, and the soccer community as a whole 🕊️ The pain remains deeply felt 💔
A Gabonese soccer player passes away in China
Diwida >.ng Earlier reports indicated that Gabonese soccer player Aaron Boupendza passed away in China after plunging from the 11th story of his residential building.
The forward, who represented the Panthers of Gabon at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations held in Cameroon, transferred to Zhejiang FC in China during January, marking his 12th professional team.