Renowned coach Clive Barker, who led Bafana Bafana to victory in the Africa Cup of Nations, has sadly passed away earlier today.

Barker, aged 78, had been battling Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) for some time, a condition that was diagnosed earlier this year.

The family expressed their gratitude to the medical professionals who had provided care and support during his six-month struggle. They acknowledged Barker’s courageous fight and expressed relief that he has now found peace.

The family also expressed their appreciation for the overwhelming love and support shown to Barker since his diagnosis, which exemplifies the impact he had as a coach, friend, and mentor to generations of footballers.

Saddened by the passing of legendary Coach Clive Barker whom we shared some great moments during Afcon 96 team successes. RIP and Condolences to the Family. pic.twitter.com/dFe9sVvwVD

— Lucas Radebe (@LucasRadebe) June 10, 2023

Barker’s journey in football began as a talented player, making his competitive debut at the young age of 17. However, his playing career was cut short due to a severe knee injury. Undeterred, Barker transitioned to coaching and went on to manage various clubs, including AmaZulu, Maritzburg United, Santos Cape Town, and Bidvest Wits, among others.

His greatest accomplishment came in 1996 when he guided South Africa to their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations title, culminating in a resounding 2-0 victory over Tunisia in the final. Barker also played a pivotal role in helping Bafana Bafana qualify for the 1998 World Cup in France. However, he resigned nearly a year before the tournament following a disappointing performance in the 1997 Fifa Confederations Cup.

Here are some memorable photos of Barker’s career shared by Backpage Pix on Twitter in 2020:

Happy Birthday to former #BafanaBafana 🇿🇦 head coach and 1996 Africa Cup of Nations 🏆 champion, Clive Barker! #backpagepix #legend 🎊 pic.twitter.com/gRxHM0uXr1

— BackpagePix 📸 (@BackpagePix) June 23, 2020