Lamontville Golden Arrows Football Club have confirmed the passing away of former captain Nkanyiso Mngwengwe in the early hours of Monday morning, in a statement released by the Durban-based club.
The 30-year-old Sgora, as he was affectionately known by the Abafana Bes’thende family, joined the team in August 2013 having previously played for Umngeni City. Mngwengwe played more than 140 PSL matches for his team and is believed to have died from natural causes at his Durban home although his family has yet to confirm this.
GREAT SHOCK AND SADNESS
Golden Arrows assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi said: “The football fraternity has suffered a huge loss. He had been suffering from injuries for a while and was not playing, but he assisted other team players, especially the young ones.
Golden Arrows chairperson Mato Madlala received the news with great shock and sadness.
“I am saddened by the passing away of Nkanyiso. I remember when he first arrived at Arrows as a promising footballer, full of energy. He was always ready to fight for the team and acquitted himself very well over the years.
“I would like to extend my sincere condolences to Nkanyiso’s family. My thoughts and prayers are with them during
DEAD ON ARRIVAL
Nkanyiso’s brother Mphathi Mngwengwe has been quoted by Kickoff, saying: “Nkanyiso woke up this morning and his body started to shake. He was shaking in his room when we got there. His wife woke us up at around 02:00 and we tried to give him first aid.
“We then took him to hospital in Maritzburg where the doctors told us he was already gone and that he had suffered heart failure. He was confirmed dead on arrival,” Mphathi added.
Orlando Pirates, Cape Town City, Kaizer Chiefs and Bloemfontein Celtics are some of the Premier Soccer League football clubs that have conveyed their condolences and moral support to the Golden Arrows and Mngwengwe family.
The details of the centre back’s funeral are yet to be announced.
Credit: Nokwanda Ncwane ( TheSouthAfrican )
