Siyabonga Zulu passed away on Sunday in a motor vehicle accident. Photo: BackpagePix
The South African football community is reeling from the shock of the tragic passing of former Mamelodi Sundowns defender, Siyabonga Zulu, who lost his life in a harrowing motor vehicle accident on Sunday morning.
The 31-year-old, known for his exploits at the level of domestic football, was returning from a league match when the incident occurred on the P185 road between Secunda and Evander in Mpumalanga.
Zulu was a key player for Phezulu FC, alongside his teammate Nhlanhla Masina, who also tragically died in the accident.
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Reports indicate that the accident took place in the early hours after their match, marking a devastating turn of events for the team and the broader football fraternity.
Another teammate, identified as former Swallows and Tuks man Thabo Mosadi, is currently fighting for his life in a local hospital, highlighting the severity of the incident.
Mamelodi Sundowns FC expressed their heartache through a poignant statement released by club chairman Patrice Motsepe and members of the board, technical team, management, staff, and supporters.
“We mourn the loss of Zulu and teammate Masina. Our thoughts and prayers are with their loved ones, families, and everyone associated with Phezulu FC. We pray that the Almighty gives comfort and strength to their friends and former teammates,” the statement read.
Zulu’s football journey began in 2011 with Orlando Pirates and later took him to several notable clubs, including Chippa United, Platinum Stars, and Blackburn Rovers in East London.
Over his career, he amassed more than 80 professional appearances and made his mark on the Under-23 national team, representing South Africa with pride. Most recently, he played for MM Platinum during the 2023/24 season.
Despite his talent and contributions on the field, Zulu’s career was marred by disciplinary challenges.
In early 2019, he became embroiled in media scrutiny due to personal issues, particularly concerning allegations of failing to pay child maintenance, a situation that he publicly addressed on the TV show No Excuse, Pay Papgeld.
His relationship with traditional healer Gogo Maweni, with whom he shares a child, had also captured public attention, exemplifying the complexities woven into his life outside football.
As the community strives to come to grips with this sudden and heart-wrenching loss, Phezulu FC has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident. Fans, teammates, and loved ones are left in suspense as authorities begin investigations into the circumstances surrounding the tragic accident.
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