The province’s only representative in the country’s elite league (PSL), the Premier Soccer League, Mpumalanga Black Aces have joined millions of people in South Africa and around the world in paying tribute to the late Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, who passed away last Thursday.

“At the same time, we are immensely proud that one of our own is loved and revered all over the globe and stands tall among the greatest leaders of the 20th century.

On behalf of all the Black Aces staff, players, supporters and their families, we would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the Mandela family at the passing of Mandela at the age of 95,” said Aces’ boss Mario Morfou.

“No single person has made a more lasting impression in the lives of humanity than he did and the best way that we can pay tribute to his legacy is to live up to the principles that he so strongly lived and fought for. We wish to convey our sincere condolences to Tata Madiba’s family, from whom he had been separated for almost three decades.

“These are extremely difficult times for the family, but we are sure that they will see it through with courage, grace and dignity,” he went on.

“His close comrades and friends will certainly miss his wisdom and guidance. South Africans mourn the death of this great freedom fighter and national reconciler. The world today is so much poorer after having lost one of its most inspiring sons.

“Hamba kahle Tata.”