The South African football community is mourning the loss of former Mamelodi Sundowns defender Siyabonga Zulu, who tragically passed away in a motor vehicle accident. The 31-year-old was involved in a fatal crash while returning from a league match on Saturday night.
Fatal Accident Claims Two Lives
The accident took place in the early hours of Sunday morning on the P185 road between Secunda and Evander in Mpumalanga. Reports indicate that the collision resulted in the deaths of Zulu and his Phezulu FC teammate, Nhlanhla Masina. Another player, identified as Mosadi, remains in critical condition and is receiving treatment at a local hospital.
Emergency services arrived at the scene to find two vehicles involved in a severe head-on collision. Authorities are still investigating the exact circumstances of the accident.
Football Fraternity Pays Tribute
Mamelodi Sundowns, Zulu’s former club, has expressed condolences to his family, friends, and teammates. In a heartfelt statement, the club extended sympathies to all those affected, including the family of Masina.
“The chairman [Thlopane] and the Motsepe Family, the Board of Directors, Technical Team, Players, Management, Staff, and Supporters of Mamelodi Sundowns FC express their deepest condolences as we mourn the loss of former Mamelodi Sundowns player Siyabonga Zulu and his teammate at Phezulu FC, Nhlanhla Masina,” the club stated.
Zulu’s former team, NB La Masia, where he played during the 2023/24 season, also joined in paying tribute. Meanwhile, Phezulu FC has yet to release an official statement on the incident.
A Career Spanning Top Clubs
Zulu had an impressive football career, having played for several top-flight teams, including Orlando Pirates, Chippa United, Platinum Stars, and Black Leopards. He also represented South Africa at the U23 level and earned a cap for Bafana Bafana.
His professional journey began in 2011 with Orlando Pirates, followed by stints with clubs such as Blackburn Rovers (on loan), United FC, Sivutsa FC, All Stars, and La Masia. At the time of his passing, he was playing for Phezulu FC in the ABC Motsepe League.
Zulu also won an Absa Premiership title during his time in South African football’s top division.
Siyabonga Zulu: A Life Cut Short
Beyond his football career, Zulu made headlines in the past due to his high-profile relationship with traditional healer and TV personality Gogo Maweni, with whom he had a child.
His untimely passing has sent shockwaves through the local football scene, with many fans and former teammates expressing their grief. As investigations into the accident continue, the football fraternity unites in mourning the loss of a talented player whose journey was tragically cut short.
Remembering a Fallen Star
Zulu’s tragic passing is a painful reminder of how fragile life can be. His contributions to South African football, from his early days at Orlando Pirates to representing Bafana Bafana, will not be forgotten. As the football community mourns, fans and former teammates continue to celebrate his legacy both on and off the pitch. May his soul rest in peace.
Related article: Mamelodi Sundowns Top Africa’s Transfer Spending in 2024 – Here’s How Much They Spent
