Nation mourns Meyiwa’s death

Several people across Pretoria and throughout the country are reeling with shock after Bafana Bafana captain, Senzo Meyiwa’s death on Sunday night.

Soccer players, fans and various people across the country have poured tributes after the tragic death of the player. Meyiwa’s death stunned the country and several great sports enthusiasts across the world. The 27-year-old Orlando Pirates charismatic shots stopper was shot and killed in Vorsloorus’s Mzamo Extension 11 in the East Rand.

It was reported that Meyiwa was shot after unknown intruders allegedly broke into the house of his girlfriend, Afro-Pop singer Kelly Khumalo. The men reportedly demanded cell phones, money and other valuables when the altercation ensued. Police are offering R250 000 for any person who will help with information to apprehend the suspects.

Many soccer stars, including the famous Spain and Real Madrid’s number one goalkeeper Iker Casillas and Fifa president Joseph Blatter sent their tributes. Casillas, who posted a photo of Senzo holding his jersey which was handed to him after their game against Spain at FNB Stadium, was Senzo’s idol. Former Meyiwa’s teammate and currently Mamelodi Sundowns player, Teko Modise expressed his shock over the talented goalkeeper’s death. The seemingly devastated Modise said: “we have lost a special player in Senzo. What has our country become? Rest in Peace Ndzori. This is really shocking,” he said.

Modise’s fellow player at Sundowns, Mame Niang also expressed his condolences and challenged the government to ensure protection of its citizens. “Seriously South African government must do something about this. People getting killed as if life is cheap is frustrating,” said the visibly angry Niang. Dean Furman, who played with Meyiwa at Bafana, wrote on his tweeter handle that he was beyond devastation. “Beyond devastated at the loss of our captain and friend Senzo Meyiwa. Thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this terrible time,” reads the tweet.

Meanwhile, South Africa’s football governing body, Premier Soccer League (PSL) has confirmed on Monday afternoon that the Soweto Derby – a match between Kaizer Chiefs and Pirates – was cancelled indefinitely. The game between the two football giants – often known as the country’s greatest soccer showpiece – was called off following Meyiwa’s tragic death. The derby was put through the backburner during the press conference after the two clubs requested the league to postpone the match. The conference was attended by the PSL chairman, Dr Ivirn Khoza, who was visibly emotional. Khoza was accompanied by Chiefs’ chairman Kaizer Motaung and the league’s chief executive Brand de Villiers.

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