Vhembe soccer icon Tokyo Mukwevho dies after illness
Vhembe football legend Thomas “Tokyo” Mukwevho has died at 70 after a long illness, leaving behind a rich legacy in South African soccer.
LIMPOPO – Thomas Mukwevho, midfield maestro, dribbling wizard, goal creator and prolific goal poacher for MTD Copper Stars and Tshipako Black Leopards, passed away on April 18 at the age of 70 after a long illness.
Early career and rise to fame
Fondly known as ‘Tokyo’ in 1980s soccer circles, his career began at Harper Mine’s small mining compound, where he played for the local team before being spotted by MTD Copper Stars, who recruited talented players from Musina-based teams.
Copper Stars and promotion glory
Tokyo, alongside Phillip ‘Ace’ Kabota, Andrew ‘Drrr’ Hlambembela, Simon Ncube, Samuel ‘Chipa’ Ramabulana, Victor ‘Immigration’ Manganye, Martin Kabota and Boy Boy Hlambela, formed part of the second generation of players to wear the Copper Stars jersey.
The team competed in the Zambuk League, then the second division of the National Professional Soccer League (NPSL), and won promotion after defeating Pretoria Callies 1-0 in a play-off.
Black Leopards chapter
He was later recruited to Black Leopards Zacharia Mathelemusa, where he played a vital role in the club’s success.
At Leopards, he featured alongside Ace Mawela, Tshisamphiri Madima, Nana Masase, Pele Sithole, Pro Senyosi, Ace Ramabulana, G1 Mbewe and Pele Likhade.
Tributes from former teammates
Long-time teammate Nana Masase described Tokyo as a visionary and quick-footed footballer.
“He was disciplined, loved entertaining people with his God-given talent, and was a humble man full of respect.”
Family remembers his legacy
Family representative Candy Mukwevho said the family was proud of his contribution to both soccer and education in the community.
“We are sad to lose him, but we accept God’s will. It is painful, but it cannot be changed,” she said.
Mukwevho was buried at the Mbaleni cemetery on Friday.
